This article is so poignant, it came and hit me nicely between the eyes. There is no doubt that awareness of this disease is gaining momentum, perhaps it’s just me but honestly, the subject of sexual abuse seems to be in all sorts of media these days.
A reminder: 1 in 3 females and 1 in 6 males experience some form of sexual abuse.
I’m including some interesting information from the article below, this may be some form of plagiarism but I can’t help but share the good news.
“………I was curious about whether she’s noticed any changes in contemporary society that she believes influence both sexual abuse and sexual healing. She said that people are more aware of the pervasiveness and the harmfulness of sexual abuse today. Survivors seem less embarrassed admitting they were abused, and by the same token society in general is doing a better job of believing and not blaming victims. An example she pointed out was that during the Jerry Sandusky trial the victims were often referenced in the media with respect, even admiration for having bravely told their stories in explicit detail. Also, numerous highly publicized lawsuits against churches, camping groups, and sports organizations have made it easier for male survivors to disclose. More people now understand that when grown males sexually abuse gays they are committing acts of pedophilia and sexual violence, not homosexuality (just like rape of a female by a male is an act of sexual violence, not heterosexuality). Also, the legal responsibility for protecting against sexual abuse appears to be shifting beyond the perpetrator of the crime to include individuals and organizations who fail to stop known perpetrators”.
As with everything the article does go on to describe the darker side of some of increase in stats related to sexual abuse. Since returning to SA I’ve met with my step farther and his wife. The meeting was recorded and I will soon share it here, with everyone that supported our Kick-starter campaign and with the Advocacy centres im associated with. I am also pressing charges against him and working with others to face their perpetrators and find peace too.
The article ended with a thoughtful quote……. “To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched with fear.” Try a little tenderness; it can go a long way.
