a memory of liberating advocacy

10 years ago after a blizzard hit Chicago, shutting the city down, leaving over 21 inches of snow, my twin sister and I sat on a couch next to Oprah Winfrey telling our childhood story of sexual abuse.

My legs went solid, hard as a rock, pinned to the couch in fear. I felt like I was sucking air from a straw trying to stay present and alive. I wasn’t able to formulate sentences well, couldn’t think properly, hard to focus.

A wild experience full of new experiences and hard ones.

I felt sick thinking of the families that may see this and use it against a child: “See this?”Grabbing on them, “don’t you ever do something like this! This stays within the family.” Felt sick thinking I would trigger survivors and even sicker thinking about our story feeding the egos and the minds of abusers.

But with those fears and all the societal narratives (when survivors come forward) aside, I know wholeheartedly that sharing is necessary. That it will provide education and awareness and ah-ah moments. Most importantly for people in abusive and toxic environments, who are also living this nightmare and for those who continue to carry that weight with them in life.

If we see more survivors showing up, we can help show that life on the other side is possible. The life where you work to heal, reprogram, reparent, integrate, embrace the mess too and become a better you. To love fiercely, live on bravely and to live fully. ✨

📸 Harpo Productions, Inc. -  George Burns