When I first began talking about the abuse I suffered as a child and young adult, I was surprised to discover just how common abuse is. After signing up with RAINN, a great organization for victims of sexual abuse, I began learning all I could and speaking out about it. I traveled and spoke and met some absolutely amazing people. I was there to inspire them, but they actually inspired me much more. After one event, a lady approached me and gave me a warm hug. Then she said, "Welcome to the survivors club, honey."
So tonight I pass that same sentiment on to you. You've been abused, hurt on every level of your physical being. Nevertheless, you keep finding the strength to live a productive life. You have family. You have friends. You survived it! That took a special kind of strength. And so we are honored to welcome you into the circle of those who have truly known pain and lived through it. Even if there are scars, the strength in you makes that beautiful too. We know you've felt lonely, like no one else understands how you feel, but we know. We've been there. We understand. All former victims have a unique voice, but it speaks the same thing- FREEDOM!
So tonight I pass that same sentiment on to you. You've been abused, hurt on every level of your physical being. Nevertheless, you keep finding the strength to live a productive life. You have family. You have friends. You survived it! That took a special kind of strength. And so we are honored to welcome you into the circle of those who have truly known pain and lived through it. Even if there are scars, the strength in you makes that beautiful too. We know you've felt lonely, like no one else understands how you feel, but we know. We've been there. We understand. All former victims have a unique voice, but it speaks the same thing- FREEDOM!
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