Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Abuse

I have become empowered my friends. Most of my family and friends already know that I was sexually abused as a child by my father. They may or may not know that I was also physically abused by both my mother and my father. Though it is hard to put a finger on (because it is not a 'physical' thing), my mother and father were also both emotionally abusive. You may or may not have known that part either. But I have become empowered.

I am going to talk about something difficult, even though you all may not want to think about it, or hear about it, or read about it on my blog. It's not funny, or witty, or entertaining. It is real. I have come to the realization that if I do not talk about abuse, then it is not dealt with by humanity at large. The people I know do not know a HUGE part of who I am: an abuse survivor. It is as if I am apologizing for being abused if I don't talk about it, and it was not my fault that I was. So I will talk about it. I will talk about the reality of abuse (it happens all the time). I will talk about the consequences and how they ripple through my life. I will talk about how I move through the pain. How the truth sets me free. I will not talk about it all right now, but in general from now on on my blog. Fair warning.

8 comments:

Melissa Huff said...

I really appreciate your courage in talking about your own abuse experiences. Reality = good; often more important than witty or entertaining. So, uh, thanks. In advance. (And sorry for writing a lame comment.)

Unknown said...

I love you! :) I KNOW you are strong, courageous and have overcome MUCH! I am so very proud of you. You ARE a survivor! I love you! :)

Robin said...

I always knew you were one of my favorite people, but I never realized the depth of your person. You are amazing. Love and miss you.

Kay said...

Thank you for being the open person that you are, Kendahl. It's important to set the example of refusing to hide it, of being firm in your knowledge that the abused person is not at fault. I admire the truth that you share with us.

Taryn said...

I'm so sorry for what you went through, and I think you're very brave. :)

Lani said...

You are awesome! I am amazed at your courage- thank you!

Jill said...

Good for you, Kendahl! I can't imagine how difficult it must be for you to talk about it. But like you said, it's helpful to be real. Being real will be helpful for others who are also struggling! Stay strong!

Jord said...

You are one of the strongest people I know and should definitely be able to talk about something that you have survived and are overcoming so well.