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Whether she wants to be or not, she is a role model to women in similar situations. Yet it is not her responsibility to guide or advise her fans. She can only do what feels right for her. Of course, by virtue of being so well known, she is a beacon, to some. Just this morning — hours after Oprah's interview aired — we received a desperate email:

Can u help me talk to rhinna
Im a single mother has been attack and hit and head into the floor over and over. I wanted to talk to rhinna I need help with my case I win a restaining order but I have a little girl now he want to see her but I'm afraid for her life now thanks u I will give u my phone but please don't put my phone where he can see my phone or get it thank u I have change my phone four time in two months and close my house thank u

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Just one heartbreaking example of the terrible, complicated emotions that can plague someone who's been assaulted and/or abused. Understanding that while the answers may seem obvious to those of us outside the relationship (cut off all contact! forget him!), they are, without fail, much less clear-cut, a lot more confusing and unbelievably painful for those on the inside. Rihanna also said that she was "worried" about Chris after he assaulted her, and felt "protective" of him. Though she was the one bruised and bloodied. It's critical that we listen to and understand this mindset. Because for millions of young fans, it might seem like Rihanna is excusing or defending Chris Brown. But what she's actually doing is vocalizing her emotions, which are neither right nor wrong. The just are. And hopefully, they shed light on how a victim of violence might not do or say what we all think is the right thing for them to do or say. It's important to recognize that Rihanna's love for Chris Brown is not unusual. She should not be made to feel ashamed of her feelings, and we should accept them, remember them, understand them. With hard truths come healing.