I’ve been struggling with how to write this next post for  a long while now.  Partly because I was traveling and my schedule didn’t allow much for alone-time-blogging, partly because I just can’t quit figure out how to put into words my immense gratitude.

Why me? Not, “Why did all this evil happen to me?” but “Why have I been spared from so much?”  Why do I get my dreams, when so many other girls like me gotten FAR less?  I work for a non-profit and get to spend full time days fighting trafficking… I don’t think I’ve mentioned that before.  (This blog isn’t part of my job mind you, it’s just for me and you.)  Maybe it’s survivor’s guilt, maybe it’s that I still don’t have the best view of myself, but I just can’t get over how damn lucky– nah, don’t believe in luck– how damn blessed I am.

I get to wake up every morning and choose to believe that my story, my experience, my work will make a difference.  I have the best job in the world…

There are a lot of people with stories of abuse who are making a positive difference in the world today.  I’d love to know the percentage of doctors, counselors, detention center workers, and school teachers who are in the jobs they’re in because of a wounded part of their past and a desire to make something good of it.  Redemption is a heavy motivator.

A common thing I tell people when I’m speaking is that we can all do something.  I don’t care what your past is, tragic or smooth, we all have gifts and a part to play in the betterment of our community’s future.  We all have a circle of influence that we can step into.  What’s yours?

May this blog serve as an education to those who do not yet know or understand the atrocities of trafficking and may it serve as an encouragement to those who understand it all too well.

(Post originally written 4/18/12)