The lingering effects of abuse never completely resolve. Bits and pieces rear their ugly head from time to time. Feelings of insecurity will come to the forefront, such as insecurity in relationships, in the bedroom, as well as feelings of not being accepted.

The key is recognizing these symptoms when they present themselves. Intense self awareness is crucial WITHOUT pointing the finger outward. In an ideal situation, if one is lucky enough to find a partner who is all accepting and has an attentive ear, one will have a partner to lean on.

For all those survivors, male, and female. This is NOT a hopeless situation. At some point, one must see the positive, the positive outcome, ” The Wonderful Life” syndrome, where all incidents are connected by a karmic thread.

If my abuse had not happened, my self exploration would not have occurred, this book would not have been written, friends, and loved ones would not have been met. My path has been altered many times for the good. I have dear friends that are all accepting of my personality and wrap their love around me. I am grateful for those individuals and future ones that will enter my path of life. There are always those who will judge, draw accusations, and cause one to ponder their feelings of self-worth and insecurity. A choice has been given to you. You may move on without them, knowing there will be feelings of pain and loss, or reach out with forgiveness. It is a two-way street, you can not force someone to walk your walk.

I am finally learning to accept love, true love. I am coming down from my fences. It is beneficial to trust and allow yourself to be loved. The outgrowth is feeling more and more secure. To not be rejected with disclosure of insecurity and frailties is an amazing experience.

Continue to try! Dump the term “VICTIM,” for at some point you will find out you are indeed NOT a victim, but a HERO, a hero to yourself and others. Please remember a hero is one who risks their life, their soul, and their heart for another. You can be a hero for yourself, but you must risk if there will ever be a positive change.