The things the little girl (me) on the left went through are things no child (nor anyone) should ever have to endure.

I don’t know how I ended up not being killed due to some of the situations I was in. Having to do the things that I did, as a run-a-way, in order to survive on the streets.

Watching my mother be abused. Being abused (sexually) myself and not fully understanding it but knowing that it wasn’t right. But who do you tell when the abusers are people that are supposed to be the ones protecting you?!?

I make no apologies for what I share. Staying quiet continues to allow your abusers to have a hold on you. Staying quiet is why so many suffer in silence. Staying quiet is why generation after generation, endures some form of abuse. Staying quiet keeps you from healing.

If I/we can help our youth heal from their trauma, then maybe I/we can prevent them from carrying it over as adults. The amount of homeless youth in my city is heartbreaking. The reasons behind the high number of homeless youth, is disturbing.

You never get over being abused; whether it’s mentally, physically, sexually, emotionally or verbally. The little girl on the left still hurts….still struggles. However, I do my best to find the light in all that darkness. That’s who you see on the right. A survivor that’s doing her best to thrive; personally and professionally.

Education, awareness, and programs are key – for the parent(s), and youth.

It’s a vicious cycle that needs to be broken.