• "You may think he took everything from you. But you still have your voice."
  This is our first entry. It is a difficult story, but don't stop reading until you get to the end. This woman's story is an example of a powerful transformation. And to the anonymous respondant -- You've stirred my heart. Best Wishes. Thank you for getting the conversation started. Patricia
• Finding My Voice
  
• Everyone knew something happened to me because of the injuries and craziness,
  but I kept the secret of what really happened.
  The following is a powerful story posted by a woman who has lived the many phases of recovering from a violent assault nineteen years ago. I find it heartening and heart-breaking, a reminder to me of how long it can take to restore our lives once rape and terror has interrupted them. It is also a reminder that change does happen.
• I arrived in Australia a broken women and I returned home hating men in
  general, my husband in particular, myself, my life and my God.
  An amazing woman writes from Australia - a story full of sadness and a remarkable movement toward forgiveness.
• "I don't remember the particulars, but eventually it became apparent that something was hanging over her head..."
  This letter is from a woman who has not been raped, but who has suffered the same crippling fears, brought on by the rape of a friend.
• "Our rapist is now serving 120 years in prison"
  The following message is a testimony to the power that lies in community - and in using our voices. Thank you - Patricia
• "Recommended book from a reader"
  I haven't read this myself but I'm interested in the new research on post-traumatic stress - Patricia
• "I am a new child and family therapist, and am very interested in concepts of healing "
• "I am twenty-six now and married with one beautiful little girl. But I am also not very satisfied or happy with my life."
• "IF YOU KEEP IT INSIDE YOU IT WILL JUST FESTER AND EAT YOU ALIVE."
  This letter addresses a common feeling that we are in danger when we speak, safe when we stay silent. I know this feeling well - have battled it in writing TELLING. But I know that silence empowers the crime, the shame, the damage. So does this woman! - Patricia
• "I have relearned to touch and taste and smell and feel. I am here."
• "So few people talk about the partner of the victim."

 

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