If I were to be honest that is where I am this year. I have so much to be grateful for, and I truly am grateful for my family and all of the blessings we have. I have been blessed beyond measure, but having a grateful heart for those blessings doesn't take away the pain.
Sometimes when an abuse victim decides to do what is right and works with law enforcement to see justice so that others are protected they lose much. I have lost so much during the process of prosecuting my abusers. To some this may sound odd, but I still grieve the loss of the relationship with my mom. It was gut wrenching to hear her get on the stand once again and side with my abuser over me. The memory is so fresh. The loss and the grief are poignant.
I guess I write all of this not because I want pity (most victims do not), but because if I am real maybe, just maybe it will help you understand someone else who is struggling this holiday season. If you are struggling know that you are not alone! We can all get through this together!
So today I'm going to focus on the things I have to be thankful for. For some reason this song just keeps playing over and over in my head, so I thought I'd share. Don't lose hope! We can be the change that this world needs! There is always something to be thankful for!
I honor you, Tina, and I acknowledge your sorrow. The grief is real, to be sure. Amidst the gratitude and laughter, the tears still manage to squeeze out and down a cheek. This particularly fresh betrayal must sting like hell. You have picked open a wound, allowing the ugly to present itself for the sake of justice. This is what bravery is. You really are a hero, Tina. I don't mean the superhero who flies and wears underwear on the outside of tights. You are a hero because you have allowed this wound to be open, allowed yourself to be vulnerable for the sake of truth; for the protection of others.
ReplyDeleteYou deserve all you are grateful for, and you deserve to heal.