I just watched this. The first woman to come forth in the Larry Nassar sexual abuse case.
She is a hero among heroes and I feel a sisterhood with her.
Please watch it all.
Her story is a bit unique, but not really.
She shows how pedphiles do not work alone.
How the adults and who they stand by, impact a child, who looks to them for guidance.
She eloquently and artfully speaks of how sexual abuse happens and the reasons why so many little children are silenced.
Not because they do not speak; but because they are not believed.
I feel a kinship with her as she too lost so much to speak.
And, in doing so wasn't received kindly by all.
Also, our greatest hopes and fears are for the little girls (boys too) who follow in our footsteps because WE are not Believed.
The person who abused me has passed.
I am not sure if I can sue the church.
It seems that I have not done enough to use my voice.
Who and what organization helped my father abuse so many?
Are they still operating the same as they did over 50 years ago?
She begs to ask, "Is this the right way to handle sexual abuse?"
I ask that too, of others who read my blog and hear my story, "Is this the right way for you to respond?"
I am hopeful that this case, which was video and is on YouTube, will be what it looks like when you don't listen to the child.
It has been my biggest nightmare, to know, It wasn't just my father and my family. But, that we are but the tip of the iceberg within that church.
What can I do?
What more will be helpful.
Oh, to have a line for little girls and boys to come forth and speak of their abuse.
Rachael, I applaud you for all you lost in order for so many voices to be heard!
Your courage and eloquence is empowering and powerful!
I can't imagine anyone not believing her and standing with her. Yet, sadly I know from experience, how many will not.
I love the judge and her recommendations to add a few lines to the #Me Too.
"#I have a name. I have a voice. I matter. Me too."
