Do Not Be A Fool

The Cautionary Tale Of Cassie

Cassie was a fool. Yes, I said the part that no one wants to say out loud. Before I make my case, I want you to understand that I am aware of the facts. Cassie was a naive 19-year-old trying to break into the music industry that destroys civilizations of beautiful women like her daily. She was spotted and courted by Diddy, the Bad Boy artist who had Jay-Z and Beyoncé on speed dial. I know he was probably the most charming man she'd ever met, especially in the beginning. I know she was seduced by the lifestyle, the money, the access to a world she'd only dreamed of. I understand the psychological manipulation tactics of powerful men who systematically isolate their victims from family and friends. I know about financial control, where leaving means losing everything you've built your identity around—your career, your home, your very sense of self. I know about the legal intimidation, the NDAs, the army of lawyers that make speaking out feel impossible. I understand Stockholm syndrome and trauma bonding. I know that statistically, it takes an average of seven attempts before someone leaves an abusive relationship. I know that during those "freak offs," she was pumped full of enough drugs to completely disassociate. I know about the beatings, the humiliation, and his brutal attempt to destroy her spirit. I know everything. And still, I'm going to tell you she's responsible for her life. This is about to be my most politically incorrect take, so consider yourself warned. If you came here expecting me to wrap Cassie in a blanket of pure victimhood, you're in the wrong place. You're going to hear me argue that women—and in this case, Cassie—must be held responsible for their choices, even the impossible ones. Especially the impossible ones.