 Life experiences makes for the best lessons. Good or bad, these experiences can help you grow and become even stronger, or they can break you down and weaken you. You, I, have the power to control how we allow for our experiences to affect us.
The best thing we can do for ourselves is try to make the best of the not so good experiences. This is easier said than done, but it's something we must work hard at doing to prevent from deteriorating. Experiences can teach you what to expect in future situations of similar circumstances, so that you are more aware and prepared to deal with them, as much as possible. As you overcome trauma from sexual abuse, you have an opportunity to help someone else get through it. This can be another form of helping you cope and overcome your experience. Be the survivor that becomes a hero for others who may have experienced similar trauma. Let your story about your traumatic experience turn into triumph by choosing not to allow it to dictate your future. You are a conquer and conquers have the strength to #overcome. Sexual abuse is certainly not my favorite topic to discuss, but it’s one of my most important ones. #ChooseWisely #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth #overcome
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 Is anyone listening??? Oftentimes, when people aren’t being heard by their loved ones, especially when something is wrong, they can feel powerless or invisible. This was the case with my parents. I tried countless times to voice my opinion and let them know how their choices were affecting me, but to no avail.
I was able to find my voice through writing. This led to teachers, principals, and faculty members hearing me, although I wasn’t being heard at home. My writing became a form of expression, as well as a cry out for help, without even knowing it. I’m hopeful my voice will inspire or help others to make better choices or overcome any oppression they may be dealing with. Find your voice - and use it with authority! What will your platform be?  Suffering sexual trauma is paralyzing… For so long I didn’t respect myself enough to fight back or stand up. I took the path of least resistance, because it was easier and, I thought, safer. It’s extremely important that boys, girls, women, and men command respect for ourselves, and do our very best to prevent anyone from violating us. Unfortunately, some circumstances are out of our control – but we can control how we move forward and live our lives from there on out.
Personally, I became overly defensive in demanding respect and not being violated. Unaware of what was happening within me, I became extremely sensitive, paranoid, and combative for the slightest reasons. I had to learn how to react cautiously and stay open-minded when feeling disrespected or violated. I began taking more time to think about situations from various angles. Conscientiously remaining calm and rational allowed me to see things differently, resulting in a better outcome. It's very important that we do not remain in the mindset of when the trauma occurred as this could perpetuate the suffering and psychological abuse. Acknowledge your past and become aware of your present. Today, choose one negative thought that has held you captive for too long. Breathe…Release…and choose one positive thought to take its place. You’re on your way to freedom!  April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
#MeToo is one of those hashtags that unfortunately bind too many of us women together. In the same light, it’s allowing us to shed light on the widespread prevalence of sexual assault and harassment. Growing up in disadvantaged household, kids who were in similar situations as myself were left vulnerable and at risk for dangerous or harmful situations. Here are five warning signs that you can look for in a child who may be suffering abuse:
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