You’re here looking for that picture aren’t you? 😉 Come back Friday! Today, I’m sharing part of a deeply personal story in hopes that it helps someone out there.
One random day as a kid I was watching Rugrats while sitting on my grandma’s dirty orange, nasty, crusted, yet somehow homey 70s carpet, and I had an epiphany that I was going to be soooo old by the time my golden birthday hit…but I was excited, even then. No other birthday mattered, except the fact that it was another year closer to that much anticipated day. Here I am a day away from turning 27, and I’m looking forward to my golden birthday more than I ever imagined was possible.
Here comes the hard part. 100% truth? I’m shaking as I type this, but I know sharing this could end up being a good thing in hopes of making a difference for those that don’t feel like they have a voice.
A little over a month ago, I almost lost my life to the hands of a man I thought I could trust. I remember the exact moment I thought he was going to end my life, and while I so vividly remember how it felt that it haunts me, I can’t find the words to describe to you the feeling of helplessness I experienced.
I’m not going to go into detail now, because the case is ongoing. Just know that one day I will. A few things though: 1. He is in jail 2. I am safe 3. I am getting the help I need. And lastly, please don’t feel sorry for me. I’m going to be okay. Instead, say a prayer for those that are still fighting and for those that don’t get to tell their story because their fate was so terribly different than mine.
I want to be a voice for the ones that have had theirs taken from them. I’m not sure how I am going to do that yet, but I thought this would be a start. Facebook started this thing where you can select a charity to donate to for your birthday. I selected The National Network to End Domestic Violence. If you feel like you can, I would love for you to go to my page and donate for those that need to be heard.
With that, if God’s grace allows, I will get to celebrate my golden birthday in just a few short hours. So many emotions are flowing through me but mostly I am grateful. I had no idea as a little girl sitting there watching Rugrats excited for this day just how much it would end up meaning to me.
rachaelbjerke 
Thank you so much for sharing your story you are a brave soul!
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Sharing your story helps others to not feel alone because so many people blame themselves when it comes to abuse and violent acts directed at them. You are definitely giving these people a voice on difficult topics in a society where others can victim blame and rationalize a terrible act towards another person as being acceptable.
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