YOU Matter: An Open Letter of Support to Sexual Assault Survivors

Hey You, This road…this journey you’ve been on, it’s not an easy one. I’m sure there have been many days when your body’s reacted to nameless emotions and your mind agonized over stolen moments—precious time snatched away from you. I am positive that there has been an instance where the reflection that stared back at you in the mirror looked like a stranger…the voice that echoed in your ears sounded like a whisper unknown. The familiar, it faded away. The light of hope, reflected dim and gray. I think it’s also safe to say that the touch you crave, you cannot trust. The intimacy you long for —perhaps you run away from. That must be frustrating…exhausting…defeating—this inability to embrace your desire to be wanted (or know that it’s even OK to want in return). I am confidant when I express these sentiments because I am you. And I am learning to lean in once again and love who I was before I was violated and protect who I’ve become in spite of the violation I lived through. I am remembering that I am a strong, confidant, woman deserving of the very best this life has to offer. I am owning the fact that I have a lot of love and light and hope to give…and I affirm myself in knowing that I deserve that same kind of energy in return. I am intentional about my space, my safety and my healing. I have good days and I have some bad ones too…this road I’m on, it’s not been an easy one. But knowing there are so many other beautiful, worthy women who can see me—gives me the strength I need to go on. Thank you for helping me to keep going… …your strength keeps us strong.   With Gratitude, Charene