Dear Editor,
As Christmas is fast approaching and a new year is to begin so soon, I reflected upon this time last year. I had left a physically and mentally abusive relationship. Christmas was met with a shattered heart, depression and no hope. I did not want to live. I would never have believed anyone could make another human being feel so worthless and that I had allowed myself to be treated that way. However, abusers thrive on a number of control issues. This letter is to encourage others who are in abusive situations to step forward into a safe place.
Begin your new year with the most special gift you could ever give yourself. I did not know where to go and I thought I had no options. Seek help with someone you can trust. Use your local resources such as mental health, a local church, a shelter, victim resources and your family doctor. All of these together can help you with the mental, spiritual and physical aspects to help you recover. I did not think I could get past all that hurt. I did! I did not think I could stand on my own two feet. I am!
This Christmas I am celebrating me! I want you to celebrate you! You are loved for and cared about and worth every wonderful thing. Please reach out and take hold of the helping hands that are waiting for you and break the cycle of abuse. You are worth it!
Annette McKinley