April is National Child Abuse Month. There are several types of abuse. My book, PAIN, has 4 short stories about 2 types of pain. The first story is about the pain of grief. The other 3 are about sexual child abuse. Story 1: Good Greif-Is There Such a Thing? Story 2: Who Do You Tell? Story 3: Chin Down, Guard Up! Story 4: A Pain.
I’ve been a group leader in the Fayette County Detention Center for 4 years and was a group leader in the Jessamine County Detention Center for 3 years here in Lexington, KY.
I believe that sexual child abuse is something that far too many victims bury deep, deep inside for YEARS. Once I opened the door for these men, I was always amazed at just how many of them were victimized as children. I could see the relief on their faces and then we talked and TALKED and TALKED.
Too often, others will tell us how long to grieve, or how long to hold on to a painful memory.
It is my opinion, that since we are all created as individuals, dealing with our individual pain should be treated in the same manner.
I do feel that it is unhealthy, in the long run, to get stuck in our pain. We shouldn’t allow anyone or anything to have that much control over our lives: present or future!
IT’S NOT WEAK TO ASK FOR HELP!
YOU CAN’T FIX IT, UNTIL YOU FACE IT!
One of the best ways I’ve found to get out of my dark place is to do something GOOD for someone else. It amazes me how the simple act of reaching out to help another can shift my focus off of myself and my pain. It is my second favorite act. Otherwise, it will rent space in our minds and become an IT in our lives. There’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
That is not to say that pain should not be addressed and dealt with…It should.
If you suspect sexual child abuse has been, or is being committed to someone you know, or love, PLEASE talk with that person, and let them know that you are there to help. If that person, is you, then PLEASE seek help. It’s NOT your fault!
I believe that my stories will help you, because they may be about you or someone you love.
PAIN: Pray About It Now!
NEVER GIVE UP!
Love & Peace,
Brother Charles
National Child Abuse Hotline
1-800-4-A-Child (422-4453)
