Justin Baldoni's powerful message for domestic violence survivors sparks an important conversation

Trigger warning: This story contains themes of domestic violence that some readers may find distressing.

Domestic violence is a serious offense that affects the victim physically and psychologically. Three in 10 women and one in 10 men in the US have experienced rape, physical violence or stalking by a partner, according to National Domestic Violence Hotline, which is alarming. The recent movie, "It Ends With Us," highlights this major issue. So weeks after its release, the film's director and actor, Justin Baldoni, took to his Instagram (@justinbaldoni) to pen a heartwarming note to survivors of domestic violence. 

He shared the post in collaboration with the non-profit organization "No More" (@nomoreorg) and a community called "Survivor Love Letter" (@survivor.love.letter), which came out from a tweet that encouraged people to write love letters to domestic abuse survivors online. Baldoni began the note as such: "Dear Survivor, You embody resilience and courage, qualities that shine bright even on the darkest days. In the tapestry of your life, each thread tells a story of endurance, strength and hope."

Baldoni went on to talk about the resilience of the survivors. He expressed, "Every step forward you take, no matter how small, is a declaration of your unyielding spirit and an inspiration to others. You may not always see the impact you have, but your journey encourages and motivates, lighting the path for those of us still searching for the light. While I can never fully understand your pain and all you have endured, I want you to know that you are never alone in this fight. We are with you."

The most heartfelt lines followed this. "You are not just surviving; you are thriving, and in your thriving, you inspire us all. May your journey forward be filled with moments of profound peace. And may you remember that as you fight for joy... you are liberating us all," he wrote. The actor ended the note with, "Sending you gratitude, strength, and love." People loved the letter that Baldoni wrote for the survivors and it sparked a very important conversation.

@anita.jj.x commented, "As a survivor, I can't speak for all of us. But for me, having a male voice speak up and empathize and support our voices and our journey is needed and appreciated. We need male support in the fight to change perspectives and behavior, especially males who influence media. Thank you for speaking up. Thank you for everything you do. Your words are even touching souls all the way here in Australia. So thank you."

@themeghanwalsh wrote, "Thank you for being so empathetic and responsible in your promotional efforts for this film. It speaks volumes to your character and your desire to make a change for survivors." @karinannalinn expressed, "As a survivor, I want from the bottom of my heart to thank you for bringing light to the issues survivors face… it's so f**king hard. And people just don't get it! It was emotional. I cried. I was in pain during the movie, but I had my dear boyfriend beside me supporting me... and I just want to say... thank you." @zombiekortnie said, "You are amazing! Thank you for speaking out and continuing to speak out. I'm a domestic violence survivor, someone who almost wasn't here because it got so bad. You have no idea how appreciated you are from us survivors. Thank you!"

If you are being subjected to domestic abuse or know of anyone else who is, please visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522.