My Friend

            I have a friend who was abused as a child. Almost killed, in fact. As she got older, she started stealing and hurting herself. Eventually, through friends and religious influences in her life, she stopped. She is now the nicest person I know.

            This story is heartbreaking (especially if you know the details). It’s also why I’m so passionate to help those who are abused so that they don’t grow up to become tomorrow’s criminals.

            My friend was able to change. No one is hopeless. All she needed was a group of people who cared about her. She also needed something to live for. She found both in good friends and religion.

            Statistics show the damage abuse causes. If you are abused, you have a higher chance of practicing destructive behavior. You can become dangerous to society.

            But you don’t have to go that route. There are many subcultures in America who understand you and have their own versions of family where you can fit in, if you indeed do not have a good one of your own.
            Stories and people like these are what inspire me to help others. People can change, they just need a catalyst.