The terrible tragedy at Westridge Grill on Thursday gives us pause on any number of levels. A longtime waitress – a friendly favorite to many regular customers – died after being gunned down in an instance of senseless domestic violence.

We probably see victims of this awful syndrome more often than we can imagine. Women – and men – who live in abusive relationships often stay quiet about their circumstances, so trapped by their environment that they fear even to speak about it to others.

Cynthia Joyner’s anguish ultimately played out in a restaurant where she was loved. The loss of her life is a loss for the entire community.

There is nothing good about her death, but perhaps someone else who is in an abusive relationship with a current partner or a former one will take heed from these tragic circumstances and seek a way out.

My Sister’s House has a long, anonymous history of helping people escape such fate. We note its anonymity because that’s the way Director Meredith Holland and her staff help such victims. They fiercely protect the identity of their clients and offer counseling in complete confidentiality.

The fear a person feels for safety, for children and for a future doesn’t have to be a trap of abusive paralysis. There are agencies – and angels – who will help people in need.

Ms. Joyner’s sweetness and attention to every customer who came through Westridge’s doors will be long missed. Here’s hoping her tragic death might raise awareness, at least, so that someone else might escape a similar fate.

Help from My Sister’s House is just a phone call away. The number is 462-4366.