Comment by Susan on 22 Dec 2009 at 7:58 pm

Merry Christmas, Karen! You are one inspirational woman. I am blessed you gave of yourself and told your story to the world. Not many would be so revealing. Most of us are selfish human beings. I know you have a heart and thankful you do. Blessings to you and your family now and forever! Oh, Happy Christmas to Richard Baer, too! Please tell him for me.

Susan, from Oklahoma

Dear Susan,

Thank you very much for your kind compliments! I admit there were a few moments I contemplated whether to reveal so much. But I thought it over and realized that without the truth, how could anyone truly grasp the depth of my experiences and journey?

If only those close to me during childhood knew what signs to look for. If only I’d realized that I was being abused. Ignorance kept me trapped. Signs were ignored. Most people in my neighborhood were too afraid to step in and do something. Maybe through Switching Time people will take a second look, and not turn away whenever they suspect a child is being abused.

Surviving abuse was not easy for me and still is a burden at times. It’s difficult to forget all. I continue to do my best to live my best life and encourage hope through sharing my story. I don’t believe those who ignored me were selfish. I believe they were uninformed. Awareness is the key.

Thank you for your blessings! I will pass on your Christmas wishes to Dr. Baer.

Karen