Until I went through my own personal experience of racial rejection I didn't realize how I really saw the world. It was a painful awakening, but I allowed it to help me learn to love people better.

I don’t feel timid and afraid. I feel in control. They won't get what I don't give them. Unfortunately, I used to feel the opposite. I was afraid they'd get whatever they wanted even if I didn't want to give it…. Why had I concluded that? Where did it all begin? I had no idea until I was 18… I was attending a conference that would help with the crisis coaching I was beginning.  One of the speakers, a Licensed Professional Counselor, covered the topic of abuse. As she began to speak on sexual abuse, for the first time ever, I actually sat there considering that perhaps I had been sexually abused.

As humans we have different stories, but many times there are similarities.  I'm not looking for the critics to voice what they disagree with, but for those who identify to know there's hope. I share mine and Evan’s story for those who are standing in the shadows, hurting, and hoping there's a way out, to know that in fact there is!

Many times we grow up in homes that aren't the most loving or affirming environments. We grow up believing things about ourselves or about life that just aren't true. Until we grow a new mindset we will hold to the beliefs we carry from childhood.