It’s Not Like You Have a Terminal Illness!

I’m always amazed at people’s perception of how sexual abuse can affect you . I’ve never been one for comparing issues. Physical, Mental, Spiritual…no two situations are alike. I only know how things feel to me. I try very hard to be respectful of others.

I was speaking with a group about the affects of abuse and afterwards, I had an individual make the comment, “it’s not like you have a terminal illness or anything!” “think about all of people that are in their last days”. I am very conscious of that. I’ve lost both parents; all grandparents and a best friend. I know.

I also know how many abuse victims never see their next birthday because of suicide fueled by the abuse. A victim told a story that she went to kindergarten the first day thinking she wanted to kill herself.

A few “affects” of abuse include teen pregnancy, drugs, alcohol, human trafficking, gangs, and more abuse.

I’m not asking you to compare abuse and illness. I’m not telling you that terminal illness is not horrible. I’m simply asking you not to diminish the affects of sexual abuse. It’s life altering. You are never the same. Some victims don’t make it-they terminate their own life because of what happened to them. Some victims lead a life of chaos, surrounded by drugs and alcohol. I have many friends just fighting to keep their head above water, trying to stay sober, just living life one minute at a time.

Jim Henson said ““Watch out for each other. Love everyone and forgive everyone, including yourself. Forgive your anger. Forgive your guilt. Your shame. Your sadness. Embrace and open up your love, your joy, your truth, and most especially your heart.”