An Open Letter to My Abusers.
Dear Abusers,
Because of you, this letter is taking all of my willpower. For years, your actions have haunted me, leaving scars that may never fully heal. But today, July 24th, 2023. Today’s the day I reclaim my voice and address you directly, finally letting go of the pain and suffering that you have handed down to me.
Have you forgotten about me by now? Do you miss me? The pain you inflicted wasn’t confined to those fleeting instances; it carved deep wounds in my soul, leaving me to navigate a maze of trauma and a matrix of identity hell.
You don’t feel what I feel. You don’t see what I see. You don’t hear what I hear. The sleepless nights, the paralyzing anxiety, the constant fear that follows me like a relentless shadow. Do your kids know about your dirty little secret? And don’t think I didn’t notice that ring on your finger.
Why me? Or should I say, why us? Was it because we were vulnerable? Lost, young souls. Little boys and girls. Who hurt you?
You do not define me. My name is Luke and I am stronger than the pain you have imposed upon me. You have shattered me to my very core, but I am rebuilding my pieces. Each day, I strive to mend and rise beyond the trauma you have plagued me with.
You used to tell me I could die and no one would know. It is in those darkest moments that I have found resilience and determination to rise above you. How does it feel? You didn’t win. My experiences have ignited a fierce passion within me to advocate for others who have suffered, to raise awareness about the lasting impact of abuse and to stop people like you from ever taking us again. From the bottom of my heart, go to hell.
This letter is not meant to seek your validation or pity. Instead, it is an Olympic torch glowing brightly above the roaring crowd. I am no longer the vulnerable child you once preyed upon. I am a survivor, and I will no longer let your actions dictate my life.
As I close this letter, I leave you with the knowledge that I am moving forward with my head held high. I am reclaiming my voice, my life, and my happiness. And in doing so, I take away the power you once held over me.
Sincerely,
Luke.
