My Story Anonymous

Alone and terrified, I lay there trying to recall the events that had just happened in my own bedroom, in my own bed. Where I used to feel the safest now made me tremble with fear. My breathing became slow, almost non-existent.

Finally, the words came out of my mouth, cutting the air like a dagger. On February 10, 2010 I was raped. While painstakingly sharing the events of my past with my family, everything around me was so silent that if a needle were to drop it would be as loud as a screaming child.

At this time I did not realize that this tragedy would ultimately shape me into the person I am today. I began to spiral into a depression and could not imagine why something this horrendous would happen to me. I did not know whom to blame for this occurrence, so I turned against everyone I loved: my friends, my family, and God. Looking back, I cannot even recognize this girl I used to be. Although I had to endure this awful time in my life, I am thankful for how it has transformed me into the strong, content woman I am today.

During this phase, all of my previous priorities suddenly plunged down the drain as I struggled to find myself. One of the biggest mistakes I made was being apathetic towards school and my grades. Being...