We need more than recovery--we need restoration

by Linda Settles
(Rustburg, VA)

Author, Redeeming Our Treasures

I am a sucker for picking up old furniture. I love going to resale stores, salvation army thrift shops, etc. and finding "treasures" of antiquity.

When I, the person who will prize my new found treasure, purchase a piece of well worn furniture, the piece has been recovered. It will move from its dusty throne on the thrift store showroom floor to my home. A pleasant change. It will be polished and dusted. It will be utilized to bring joy to those who share my home.

Sometimes, however, I find a truly special piece. An antique or rare design that is truly unique. That "find" will often be restored. The old finish will be stripped off and it will be sanded down. Abrasions will be filled in and a new coat of protective finish will be laid down. I will be certain to call my new prize to the attention of all my guests.

Some (few) of course, will disdain the piece. After all, it has "character marks" that were too deep to sand out and the imprint of time is upon it. Most, however, will ooooh and awwwww over it. Some will even envy my special find because it is obviously one of a kind.

So it is with us as abuse survivors. We are unique. We have a special strength--the strength of a survivor. Perhaps, we are in the process of recovery, victims in search of victory. Let me assure you my friend, the strength that carried you through the trauma will see you through to triumph if you hold on and keep walking. Keep on moving through the process. Don't ever quit and don't give up. You are destined for victory. The very assault upon your heart and soul that stained your innocence, will be your own personal testimony of the strength and resilience of the human spirit--the God-breathed tenacity that proves our potential to win.

We are survivors. Victims in the process of restoration. No matter how you feel right now, you are more than your feelings. Feelings can deceive us for they are influenced by the mental and emotional power of those who abuse us. You are body, mind, and spirit. You are heart and soul. You are a complex being with the ability to soar on broken wings.

No matter what has happened to you. No matter how you have responded to the abuse or the abuser. You are a unique, amazing treasure in need of restoration. And, unlike inanimate objects who must wait for someone to come along and pick them up, you can choose to get out of the 'thrift shop' of life, reach out to those who have learned to soar on broken wings, and catch the currents of the air to reach heights you never imagined.

You can do it. We are here for you, to help, to encourage, and to care for you as you journey upward.

Don't wait. Time is precious. Every day counts. Call someone. Write us at this site. Talk to a wise counselor. Do it today, my friend. We are waiting.

Love,
Linda