I was raped by a male babysitter when I was in the third grade. He was 15. He was the son of missionaries who taught my parents in bible college. I never told anyone until two years ago when I finally told my therapist. I still have never told my parents.
I’ve felt such shame for years and have never had a long term relationship because I find it difficult to trust and I find sex painful. I am 40 now. I never want anyone to feel the pain and shame I have felt for over 30 years.
The next year, I was abused by my uncle who was only three years older than me. He forced me to perform oral sex on him. I had no idea what that was at the time. I felt for years that it was my fault, that I had somehow asked for it.
I saw Linor’s story and it gave me the courage to finally admit what happened. I wish I was as brave as her to share my story with others.
You are as brave as Linor, by sharing your story here. You’re not alone, and you’ve taken a big step toward forgiving yourself and getting it off your shoulders. Linor and all of us at Brave Miss World encourage you to keep sharing and getting support. The only way things will change is if people like you speak out. Stay strong! With love from the Brave Miss World Team.