SENTINEL WATCH December 16, 2002 Issue

Not just a survivor—but victorious

By Cindy Neely

The term "abuse survivor" has become familiar these days—someone who has somehow "made it through," and finally escaped, abusive conditions. But true freedom, I believe, means more than surviving a horrific experience and coming out right side up. Being truly free means being triumphant. It means being healed of both physical and emotional scars.

This kind of complete healing comes from God, who is Love itself. Love embraces and lifts us up. It doesn't leave lingering battle scars, mental flashbacks, or bitterness. Pain and fear dissipate in the love of God and are replaced by confidence and well-being. For this reason no one needs to feel that they have just survived mental or physical abuse. There is a way out that will take the abused person beyond the painful memories to a life made brand new.

Two years ago I participated in a panel on child abuse. The morning session focused on how childhood abuse can cause permanent damage. The panel consisted of an attorney, a medical doctor, a Roman Catholic priest, and a registered nurse, all of whom work specifically with abuse cases.