Since writing my book, I suppose the most commonly asked question is, Why? Why disclose my history of abuse?  After years of working through the feelings of shame, anger, depression, and anxiety, I felt I could give something back, give something to others who have walked in my shoes. All of us in life are dealt situations that we may not want or that we are not ready for. Whether this is abuse, death of a loved one, economic crisis, divorce, or any one of life’s stressors. We always have a choice how we deal with these experiences. Do we sit back and complain pointing fingers outward, become depressed and frozen, not enjoying life’s daily gifts, or do we confront our issues head on and move through? It took me years to move through it and I am thankful I did. It took perserverance, asking for help,and support from friends, family, and a love of life.

When we try and try, especially in relationships, and the outcome continues to be the same, at some point we need to move on. Life is short. There is too much to experience and too many people that each of us can make an impact on.

By disclosing our traumas of the past and what we have learned, we can give back to those that have had similar experiences. This is true in politics, war, sports,and relationships. How does one ever grow personally and professionally if they do not embrace humility and give back to someone else?

So disclosure for me has been good. It has enlightened me that a new path is beginning and just maybe I can touch someone else’s heart, helping them through a traumatic experience.