If caps lock was journalistically acceptable, I would use it on the following: What are you thinking, Rihanna? On Monday, Feb. 20, the singer’s birthday, she engaged in public interactions with ex-boyfriend Chris Brown. This wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for the 2009 domestic violence incident in which Brown brought upon himself a disgraceful reputation.

Scrolling through my Twitter timeline, I was baffled when I came across a happy birthday tweet to Rihanna from Brown in which Rihanna replied “Thanks!” The media has portrayed their relationship as nonexistent and frowned upon, so I was shocked when I discovered via Twitter that Rihanna and Brown had collaborated on each other’s songs. Brown features himself on a remix of Rihanna’s “Birthday Cake” while Rihanna makes an appearances in a version of Brown’s recent “Turn Up The Music.” These collaborations caused a stir on social networking platforms upon their release, taking in to consideration the fact that both remixes leave questions regarding their current relationship.

My thoughts? I’m in no position to criticize their relationship nor is anyone else. It’s likely that Brown hasn’t changed much, but it’s also likely that he has proven himself worthy of Rihanna behind closed doors. The only concern I have is Rihanna’s reputation. While it was definitely an applaudable publicity stunt, the attention might only be negative for Rihanna. What kind of message could this be sending to victims of domestic abuse? Figures like Rihanna are incredibly influential and I worry that those who have experienced a similar situation will find it justifiable to put themselves back in a dangerous place.

Regardless, at least Rihanna got her “Birthday Cake.”