I received this letter today and thought of how inspiring it is for me and hope that it will be for you as well. With so much focus on Breast Cancer Awareness this month, as you read this please remember this is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
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Dear Michelle,
I had sent an e-mail to you or your organization today, letting you know I was about to start your book this weekend. I just started it tonight and finished.
I was stabbed over 20 times in my home by an ex-boyfriend just two months ago. Fortunately I survived. I am a single mom with two small kids, and they were here (but didn't witness this) However, my daughter heard part of it.
I have not cried much at all in the past two months. Not that I didn't want to... I just could not get in touch with my emotions. Tonight, while reading your story, I cried almost non-stop. I can't believe what you went through and how you have risen above the ugliness.
Your quote with Maya Angelo has always been my mantra.
"Your" quote about life being a journey... not from just point A to B moved me. I felt broken before my attack. I was in a crappy dating relationship because I felt so desperate. I am currently trying to piece it all back together somehow.
Your story has very much touched my heart.
God bless you and your daughter Breea. You are strong women. I know my children and I will get through our ordeal too. I dread the trial before us... but it will most likely be a long way away.
Your book has informed me so much about our "criminal" justice system.
Thank you for giving me an outlet to vent my emotions. Thank you for sharing your painful story, in order to help others.
Sincerely,
Domestic Violence Survivor (name not used to protect her identity)
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Dear Survivor,
Your email touched my heart as my eyes filled with tears of humility and gratitude for having found my voice and choosing to follow my divine calling and purpose in the aftermath of violence, abuse and trauma. YOU are the reason I do what I do now; the reason I keep going and forge ahead with nothing but heart and soul and a vision for positive change in the lives of those who have suffered at the hands of another so violently.
The way you choose to recover and evolve, embrace and accept not only the past but the future as well, will shape your children's lives. They and you need you to choose a positive recovery and self-loving discovery path. I seems as though you are beginning to do just that. Keep being their hero. Keep being your own hero.
Court accompaniment is available for you when trial dates do come. Let me know if you need more information.
Thank you so very much for your words that fed my spirit today and remember...Be The Journey!
Sending love and light,
Michelle Renee