It's hard to SPEAK up

It's hard to SPEAK up ~

When it comes to abuse, it is very hard to speak up. Trust me, I I know it's difficult to speak out. Most of us that have suffered from abuse are afraid to admit what happened.

We are afraid of what others' will think of us. We are afraid to talk about something that horrible happening to us. I mean why should we, what would people think? I mean who would believe us, and would they think less of us, how would they treat us.

There are so many reasons that we feel are valid for not speaking up. I honestly hate letting people know I was abused. It is petrifying letting people into something that was very painful, much less degrading. I think they would say it was my fault. Now that I think about it, what could a five year old do or say, who would I talk to and say my a**hole adopted father abused me. He was a prominent person, who would they believe. Seriously would you believe a five year old over an grown up. I'm sure I wouldn't.

So yes it is scary, frightening, and degrading to speak about what happened.

So why should I?

First of all, is to get closure. I mean it was a lot of baggage to carry around for so many years. Telling someone, a professional that is, helps the healing process.

Talking about it is the first step in recovery. Understanding that we are not alone, that this is a social pandemic; if not treated will destroy you and you will never feel safe or complete without talking about it.

Secondly, we need to let the world know that we do not appreciate this behavior that harms our children. If we don't report it or stand up for ourselves, what does it teach the next generation? That we adorn this behavior.  He** NO!!

Third, once we report it, we should support other's that have gone through it, by letting them know that you understand the pain they suffered and how difficult it is to come forward..

Lastly, I feel that ongoing therapy is necessary to overcome our fears. Some of us take this one step further by writing a book about or like me creating a blog to let you know that you are not alone.

While others seek legal representation against their abusers. Some states and countries, offer a fund to pay for your counseling. 

I recommend doing what you need to do, to assist in your healing, I feel that this has been swept under the proverbial carpet for too long.

Let the world...or even your counselor know about what happened. Because pretending it didn't happen will only bring you long term pain and a feeling of remorse for not standing up for yourself.

Whatever your decision, I am here to listen and offer advice.

Prayers,

Mandie