Child Abuse Story of Healing and Recovery From Emme

by Emme
(USA)

For many years my brother Nikki and I were severely abused by my father. There are so many scars, physically and emotionally that will never heal. But I have found an approach that helped my brother heal.

Nikki was severely beaten and emotionally abused. After our father's death, he had a serious breakdown and beat on me in our apartment. When he finally stopped, he realised what he had done and tried to shoot himself. I stopped him and held him in my arms. "I'll love you no matter what, because you're perfect," I told him. He looked into my eyes, his expression one of shock and hope. "You're not mad at me?" he asked. I shook my head. Because though many people told me I was simply condoning more abuse, the strangest thing happened: he stood up, looked me in the eye and said, "This is the last time I will ever raise a hand to anyone. I'm sorry I beat you, and I swear it will never happen again."

I was a little wary, but I wanted to give him a second chance. I was right in giving him a second chance, because now after 6 years, he hasn't even raised his voice to me. What he needed was to let it out, without reproach and restraint. He did, and then he needed someone to tell him that they still loved him.

Many people told me I was insane to do this, but it has led to the happy and healthy life of my brother and our children. I am not saying this exact approach is for everyone, but it most certainly worked for him.

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