Raped by my cousins at age 8

Dear Pastor,

I am from Kingston. When I was growing up, I could not talk about what was happening to me. I am in my 40s now. My mother died when I was a child and my aunt took my sister and I live with her. Four of her sons had sex with me when I was only eight years old. It affected me, and even until now I haven't gotten over it. I haven't come to myself as yet, and I had to live with it.

Yes, pastor, one of them took my virginity from I was eight years old, and because of what happened I can't stand men.

R

Dear R,

You were too scared to report your cousins to your aunt. You haven't said whether the boys sexually abused your sister too. But I supposed they did. You have never been able to deal with this matter well. I am sorry to know that at such tender age these guys sexually abused you.

I am glad you have found the courage to write to me and talk about what happened. I would suggest that you call a family counsellor and make an appointment to see him. It is not too late for you to talk about what happened when you were a child.

I will be praying for you. I would also suggest that you should feel free to call me if you do not know which counsellor to talk to, as I would give you the name of someone to whom you can speak in confidence. I will be praying for you.

Pastor