Comment by Shannon on 19 Feb 2010 at 2:04 pm

Dear Karen,

Thank you. I mean really truly thank you. I was so depressed the last four months. My sister bought me your book for Christmas and I was insulted thinking she insinuated I may have MPD or DID. It only added to my depression. Well I was off work for three days from the flu and started reading your book. I read it right though in one day and never imagined you would inspire me. I would be proud to be like you but judged you before reading. Now I want to write you and tell you I respect and admire you. I love that you are answering questions. I went to work today in a better spirit. I put all my anger aside and decided to do my best. I refuse to listen to those who degrade me for my depression. I feel a weight lift off my shoulders. If you can heal from your past I know I can too. Thank you. We who have been abused need to support each other. You were right. The past abuse suffered takes a lifetime to heal from. I was living in fear which allowed my abusers to control me. No more for me.

Shannon

Dear Shannon,

Thank you for sharing your experience reading my story and your own healing process. Feeling depressed and receiving a book about someone who also suffered must have been overwhelming. Inspirational or not, a story like mine is not easy to read when you’re not feeling well yourself. I’m glad you put the book aside and read it when you did. I am touched to hear you went back to work in better spirits after reading Switching Time, and not allowing ignorant degrading comments to depress you. Sadly, some people are better at causing additional grief than making efforts to help.

Thank you for all your compliments! We do need to support each other, always. Those of us who have been abused share a bond that requires faith, strength, hope, and constant encouragement. I’m glad you refused to listen to hurtful words. It may take a lifetime to heal, but you are not alone.

Karen