From Tracie: Dear Survivor - A Letter of Encouragement to Survivors of Abuse and Sexual Assault

As we reach the end of another Child Abuse Prevention and Sexual Assault Awareness month, I am reminded that for those of us who are survivors, the healing journey doesn't end here. In February I wrote this letter for Love Letters to the Underloved, and I think it is fitting to share it with you here, on this last day of April.

Dear Survivor,
I call you survivor, because that is what you are. I know there are days when you don't feel like a survivor. Days when the memories and triggers from past abuse comes crashing in, and it feels too hard to take even one more breath - but you take that breath anyway. You are strong.

I long for you to know that the abuse was not your fault. It does not matter if it happened in your childhood, your teens, or when you were an adult. You did not deserve it, or cause it, or bring it on yourself. You own no shame.

In your life, you have faced much darkness. Look around you and see that all is not dark - there is beauty, too. You are beautiful.

The abusers in your life told you that you are worthless - that your only value is as a sexual object or a punching bag. Those were lies they told you. Your worth is great.

I know that sometimes those lies push their way back into your mind, and you find yourself repeating them. I encourage you to look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are amazing - because you are.

The truth is.....You deserve to be loved and treated with respect. You deserve peace and joy in your life. Don't settle for anything less than that. God has plans for you. Your future does not have to be dictated by your past.

Your abuser tried to hold you down, but now you are free to fly. Your life has purpose and hope. You are courageous, and I know you will do incredible things.

It is okay to cry and feel tired - healing is hard work. But you are rocking it - even on the days when it feels like too much. You are doing that hard work, and I am so proud of you.

Each step you take is a precious blessing, dear survivor.

Stand strong. You are loved.
Tracie