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Voices Heard eZine Spring|Summer 2024
FROM THE EDITOR: OUR STORIES
I’m always fascinated by the stories shared with us and find healing in each.
Our stories differ and yet we share so much. From Childhood Sexual Abuse (CSA), Incest, to Sibling Sexual Abuse (SSA) to parenthood, we share many similar aspects in healing. So many impactful stories follow about the lives of survivors.
I’m blessed to know Joanne Kirves, a repeat contributor, whose poem Enough touched me in so many ways. It’s front and center on Pg 6.
A mother daughter team shared their empowering stories and poem Indestructible Pg 8, poem Broken Mind, Pg 12, by Brook about healing from sibling sexual abuse, and Shattered by Heather, Pg 13. Another new contributor Bonnie Ellen shared her beautifully written and profound poetry What I Haven’t Said, Pg 20. In A Mother’s Greatest Nightmare, Sheryl tells us about her touching story when her daughter revealed her sibling sexual abuse, Pg 22. Part 2 of Adulterated by Yodee, continues the story of a child sexually abused. Read how her mother reacts when she reveals her secret, Pg 24. In The Magic of Creativity, Mary Knight shares how she discovered creativity and how that helps her heal, Pg 36. Poke. Poke. Poke., a poem that I, Claire O’Leary, wrote during my writing circle reveals my inner cheerleader, Pg. 42.
The Building Resilience section offers new ideas in healing. Healing Ourselves & Our Communities an interview with Rachel Grant interviewed by Ron Capocelli, as always is chock full of great insights as Rachel discusses her own life after abuse, Pg 44. Another new contributor Mary Knight tells her story of delayed recall and how helpful it was for her in The Path to Healing From Sexual Abuse, Pg 55.
As always, the Resources section offers books for teens and young adults and links to online resources for kids, parents, and adult survivors, Pg 61.
Share your wisdom and your stories with me at Claire@ClaireOLeary.com.
View Past Issues of Voices Heard.
A reminder that the one and only printed issue (thus far) of Voices Heard is still available for purchase for only $30. It would make a lovely gift for another survivor or those associated with survivors. Check it out.
