I'm on the kids' side, I know what it feels like to grow up with an addict. I had a low bottom drunk addicted to rage. I am a miracle of survival.
Well, my sisters and I came home from school every day to a vicious, pig-eyed, violent drunk. I was hit so many times that I now have TMJ....my jaw clicks and pops from the merciless slapping. She wouldn't stop till I started screaming.
Sent me to school wearing her old clothes from the 40's, wearing her old underwear.
Child abuse, child neglect, child sexual abuse, child sex trafficking. We came out of this very damaged, but still alive...and THAT'S a miracle.
From victim to survivor. These kids will make it because they have already walked barefoot thru hell. When you come out of the fire, you will never burn again.
Sorry to dump my shit on y'all. I want to take these kids home and love them. I'd get them the therapy they will need...I've been in therapy since I was 22. Be in therapy for the rest of my life.
I'm in a group comprised of Marines from 'Nam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and one from Korea.
IWe fought our battles in different places and different times; we were all badly wounded. Sometimes all you have are your buddies.
Blessings to these children and may the Mother give them her blessings of peace and strength.
I still want to take them home...to a real home, full of kid-noise, family dropping in, dogs and cats twining around your legs and stealing food right off your plate.
Teaching them how to play poker (with peanuts for chips). I cheat. my grandpa taught me. I can now deal a pat hand and NOBODY will play cards with me.