Comment by Suzen on 20 Sep 2010 at 9:26 pm

Hi Karen,

Just read the book. I am disturbed and yet happy that you overcame your condition.
 I am a preschool teacher and a child advocate against violence. 
At the end of the book you were willing to let your story out for the sake of helping other children. I have encountered many children with many different signs of abuse. What other signs can you advise me and what would of told me if I were your teacher and you had your voice? I know impossible to meet you but would love to correspond with you since my friend and I are opening a new school that will help all children. Look forward to hearing from you. Good luck and many days of happiness to you and your family.

Suzen

Dear Suzen,

Thank you for sharing! I am glad to hear from a child advocate against violence and hope to learn more from you. I would like to help to the best of my ability, but please know that I’m not a therapist and can only share from my own personal thoughts, opinions, and experiences.

During my childhood there were many signs that were visible yet ignored. I believe a few reasons were from lack of knowledge and fear of getting involved with with any child being abused. I recall one teacher who “felt” my pain but feared acknowledging it. As I look back this nun did the right thing by not singling me out and bringing attention to my bruises or appearance. I recall Sister B making eye contact with me, working her way back to my seat, while casually stopping at every other students desk along the way. I knew her goal was to talk to me. I sensed it. When she arrived at my desk, she knelt down and whispered to me that she knew I was not okay and that if I needed to talk, she would listen. It was in this sister that I first confided.

I believe some signs of abuse are low self-esteem; simple things forgotten, not socializing with fellow students, being bullied, nausea, headaches, not wanting to go home, seeking approval, trying to be the best student, always compliant yet distant.  Hope these few will help.

I’d like to meet you someday!  Wishing you all my best!

Karen