A Letter To A Friend Who Was Sexually Assaulted

Trigger warning: Sexual assault

A letter to a friend who was sexually assaulted:

I’m sorry. I am sorry it happened, I’m sorry you have to deal with this, and I’m sorry I don’t always know what to say.

When you told me, I cried. And I felt selfish for crying because it wasn’t about me. I should have been strong, but instead you were consoling me. I cried because you are my best friend and you deserve the world, not something like this. I cried because this is not going to be easy. I cried because the guy who did this to you went back to his life as if nothing happened. I cried because I can’t be with you right now; I can’t hug you or bring you ice cream. I cried because you cried.

I feel angry. I’m angry you have to go through this. I’m angry I can’t give you the justice you deserve. But I want to help. I want to help you heal. I want to help you put this behind you.

But this isn’t about me.

It is about you. You are smart, beautiful, kind, and so important. You matter. Don’t let this situation or this guy or our justice system let you feel otherwise. You are strong, and you did not deserve this. Whatever you decide to do, whatever action you do or do not decide to take, I support you. You are right. You are in control of your life and you are more than capable of achieving amazing things. And this is not going to stop you.

Sometimes horrible things happen to really good people. You are one of those really good people. I wish I had answers for you; I wish I had an explanation. The only thing I do know, and I am sure of it, is that you are an amazing person and I know you can overcome this.

Please talk to someone. Please let us help you through this. You are not alone and you never will be.