My mother said, “Edna, I want you to take five giant kangaroo hops,” I asked, Mother, may I? Mother said, “Yes you may.” With so much confidence and the biggest smile, I counted loudly every hop of the way. I hopped with all my 4-year-old might. I.. 2.. 3…4.... I did it! I was so proud of myself. I held on to the memories of my youthful innocence, excitement, playful and carefree demeanor until they were overshadowed by a nightmare I couldn't wake up from!

One day, those noticeably confident giant kangaroo hops turned into fearful flops, cowardly crawls, shameful steps, multiple sways of low self-esteem, and dangerous depression. I was raped.... I was abused physically, sexually mentally, and emotionally. I was stripped of my innocence and the playful carefree smiles were slowly wiped away. So many memories lodged into my mind….. How did I make it out to stand here today and share my story? I trusted God! My brother and my sister no matter what you're facing I want you to take one giant step of forgiveness, one giant step of trusting God in you, and one giant step towards overcoming. No need to ask, “Father or Mother, may I?” It’s already in you, (If you need to hear it) Yes, you may. Let’s overcome together!