Article September 3, 2001 Issue

THE COURAGE TO FORGIVE AN ABUSER

When I was in elementary school, a relative abused me sexually. It went on for quite a while. I didn't know any better. Didn't even know what an abuser was. He told me I made him feel good and happy.

Because I'd been taught to be a respectful little girl, I certainly didn't want to make him feel bad. But, why couldn't I tell anyone? And, why were we always doing it in secret? If it was so good, shouldn't it be shared? Sharing all of my toys was right. Why not this?

Then one day I happened to be watching TV with my parents. An advertisement came on about VD.

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