Recently, there have been several stories accusing sports coaches of various forms of child molestation. I am proud of the young men that have found the courage to speak up for themselves because they will become strengthened. I am happy for the families of the victims who have chosen to SUPPORT their adult children who are now unearthing an ugly secret. I know a few things about ugly secrets. What I know most of all is that ugly secrets exist because no one speaks up and no one tells the truth. I know ugly secrets continue to hide the atrocities of even uglier people because we are allowing their ugliness to permeate our lives. Shame forces us to remain silent when we should be speaking up and speaking out. We should not look the other way when we suspect that a child is being molested and/or abused.

I do not know of the guilt or innocence of Sandusky or the Syracuse University coach who is also accused of something similar. I know that children who have been raped and molested feel powerless long after they have left childhood. I know that it takes tremendous courage to admit to the world that you were victimized when you’d really like to move on with your life. Its not easy to go up against someone who is powerful or is loved by their community and state that they are actually some kind of monster. So, today, I wanna send a prayer of strength for anyone who has ever been molested or raped. I’m saying to you, “Be strong. Tell the truth. Be not afraid. “

Peace and Love,
Yasmin