He Left Without His Shoes

This piece addresses the sensitive subject of child sexual abuse. Creating it allowed me to excise the irrational shame and guilt that a child victim feels about the abuse.1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys experience sexual abuse and 93% of these victims know the abuser who is usually a trusted friend or family member. I kept my true emotions stuffed inside for 39 years due to the social norms of the 60’s. Fortunately, now victims are recognized and can seek professional support and criminal prosecution of the perpetrator.