Posted: 1/6/2010 - 7 comment(s) [ Comment ] - 367 trackback(s) [ Trackback ]

I posted an experience I had with my mother recently when I reported the abuse and a few survivors shared their stories too.  Thank you very much because it helps to know I'm not the only one.   Because of those stories I had an open dialogue with my daughter and apologized for not successfully leaving our abuser who sexually assaulted the both of us. I knew my daughter had been sexually harmed by my ex and reported the abuse to the Child Protective Services and the police but nothing could be "verified" and I was left to fend for myself in this awful system.  Over and over again I called for help to protect myself and my children and the system just buries victims in doubt and disbelief.   I never once doubted my daughter's disclosure but I wasn't quick in acting for fear he would kill us and I was young and a mess from the abuse.  This is not an excuse just a reality that I didn't have the tools or knowledge in protecting us as I do now.

 How do I ever forgive myself ?  My daughter has already forgiven me (I think) and moved forward. I told her she was brave and that she never deserved the hurt she went through.  One thing that perplexed me is what my daughter said last night and that was, " Mom, you are not as angry at dad as I am. "  I told her that I was very angry and she said that it didn't seem that way.  OH MY GOSH!  I was heartbroken that she didn't feel I was justifiably angry.  I explained to her that I need to remain strong and put my emotions aside but if she knew how angry I was that it wouldn't be appropriate for her to see since she is still too young.  I told her when she is grown up we can talk all about how angry I really am.  She seemed happy to know that I am feeling angry too.  Thank you survivors for your stories.  I hope when my daughter grows up her outcome will be good because I supported her the best way I know how.  If you have any suggestions I would appreciate them all. 

Blessings to you all!

Mandee

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