For the first time, publicly, I am speaking out and up for the survivors of in home trauma, abuse, and violence. As an adult, I want to be one of the soldiers, brave enough to tell the story, in it's truth. I am not looking or seeking sympathy, or things done to me well over 15 years ago. But I am, in honesty, looking to finally bury this pain, and revolving burden, once and for all. So, maybe if I share, and bring further awareness, to what others have, may be experiencing, or cannot bring light to their situation, from my story, then maybe I can save another soul, or help souls to come forward.
Bare with me please.....because before the age of 8 years old, I cannot remember what my life was like. I have bits and pieces stored...but have somehow managed to block all recollections of my life prior to April 28th, 1999.
FUN FACT:
1 in 7 children has experienced child abuse and/or neglect, by the hands of a parent, close family, for family friend(s). It's estimated that at least 1 in 7 children in the US has experienced child abuse and/or neglect in the past year. Neglect is the most common form of child abuse, followed by physical abuse, sexual abuse, and psychological abuse. Relatives of the child are most often the perpetrators of child abuse. In particular, parents make up the majority of child abuse perpetrators. In 2008, more than 80% (81.1%) of perpetrators were parents of the victim. I myself, am the survivor of physical, mental and emotional abuse.
Again, this story is not for the faint of heart. There are a lot of patches, that I still do not have clarity with...and unfortunately, don't feel as though I will ever have the answers to. However, what I do know, and can share, I will. This is as much my story as it is anyone else's.
I cannot complain, or even fabricate that I was not a lucky, or blessed child. Because I was. From what I do remember, and what I can recall, I was immensely blessed. I also want to make it very clear that I am not saying I was the poster child for perfection. No child is. No one person can or will be. I give credit where credit can be placed, respectfully, but...I will be as HONEST about my situation as I can possibly be.
I will try to, the best of my ability, be as upfront and honest with any questions you may have had.
For those that know me, knew of my situation, or may have experienced me at some point in time, throughout my abuse, THANK YOU! You are truly appreciated, loved, and forever apart of me.
This is MY story. This is my TRUTH. I will not be silenced. I will no longer be ashamed. I will no longer be afraid. I want to help. I deserve to heal. More than anything, I want to forgive for ME, so that I can live and give my children everything I did not acquire from my mother: unconditional love, protection, adoration, and appreciation.