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Shatter the Silence

Story ID:3934
Written by:JANET KESSLER POLUDNIAK (bio, link, contact, other stories)
Organization:JUST ME
Story type:Poem
Location:Anytown USA
Year:2004
Person:This deals with abuse. We need to "shatter the silence."
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Comments

Posted 05/31/2008 05:50 by Georgie~Girl Vuletich | Reply
A painful memory for me..TY for sharing the most common abuse that no one comes forward enough to speak about..
Posted 05/31/2008 09:44 | Reply
Abuse is a painful memory for anyone who has experienced it--regardless of the source. But from one who should be trusted, it seems to accent the pain making it difficult to trust again. There is a place of healing in Christ. I had to realize that He was there all the time--weeping with me, loving me, and later, setting me free from the abuse. My prayers are with you and others who find this painful. Thanks for your comment. If I can help, please contact me. Janet
Posted 06/02/2008 00:36 by Sabina Benjamin Thomas | Reply
Hi Janet,
Yesterday's paper carried a report of a teenager abused by her own brother. She was too afraid and ashamed to talk about it, till doctors discovered she was pregnant.

Often victims blame themselves and are too guilt- ridden to share or seek help. They are also ostracized by a conservative society. But things ARE changing, with people who like you are shattering the silence.
- Sabina
Posted 06/02/2008 07:48 | Reply
Sabina, You're right about the deep seated shame and fear that accompany abuse--which is what often keeps people from coming forward. Stattistics state that 2 in 4 women, and 2 in 5 men have been abused by the time they reach 18 years of age. Statistics only represent reported offenses. Many remain unreported. These victims should not be victimized a second time by an ignorant public, but I know it often happens. It is time people wake up. I was a little concerned about posting the piece, but decided to shatter the silence.
Posted 06/02/2008 23:26 by Sabina Benjamin Thomas | Reply
Dear Janet,
I am so glad you posted. While you are shattering the silence, you are also reaching out.. It's not just a self-absorbed scream.. That's what makes YOU and your writing so SPECIAL !
- Sabina
Posted 06/03/2008 07:22 | Reply
Thanks again, Sabina. Janet
Posted 06/17/2008 23:55 | Reply
Janet,
Your poem speaks for so many victims of abuse. I grew up in a very secure, happy, loving home, and wish every child could have that privilege, but sadly that's not the case. Thank you for being bold enough to post this poem. It is going to help numerous people who read it and can identify with it.
God bless you with extra-special joy in your day to day life,
Sandi in FL.
Posted 06/20/2008 09:02 | Reply
Hi again, Sandi. Believe me, He gives me joy without measure. He also brings tremendous healing to those who are willing to give Him their pain. Every child should have love and security, but unfortunately--in a fallen world--that's not the case. My heart goes out to those who struggle to function because of their pain. I've learned from experience that He can take our pain and redeem it for the good of others and ultimately for ourselves. Thanks again for commenting. Janet