There is an instance in my book “Seasons Once Upon My Innocence” Where Aubree an eighth grader was attached. The outcome was upsetting to some readers and praised by others. When something like this happens in a young teen, they are overwhelmed with fear and guilt.
For Aubree (the character in my book) she was playing all the different outcomes. What happens if she tells? She would cause pain and hurt to her friends, the family of the predator would be ruined, she would be treated differently, and people would look at her as if she were dirty. She also considered what she herself would lose, her best friend, she would lose the opportunity for an event she and her friends had trained over several months. Would she be letting her friends down and would they be mad at her? Would anyone even believe her? Should she tell her parents? What will they do to him? Will Randy or Clyde get charged with assault? She was thinking “could I handle all of this.”
On the other hand. What if he were to do this to someone else? He should pay for what he has done. He should have consequences for his actions. His family should know what he has done. The community has a right to know. Should she put him in jail and on trial?
If we had three hands, the third hand would be. He is a Christian who made a mistake. God convicted him of his mistake immediately. He went to the God for forgiveness. Is it that simple? Is God just going to forgive him and expect me too?
I guess you will have to read to find out what Aubree decided. The moral of the story is these things happen more than you think. Our children are put into adult situations where their innocence is taken from them. We as parents must give our children a firm foundation in Christ to help them when we can’t be there. Aubree prayed about it, talked with her parents and made the best decision for her situation.
The decision you make with your child might be different. Make sure your children are comfortable enough to come to you. It is important you include your child in the decision. You will not always be there to make the decision for them. Teach them, love them, listen to them and guide them.
Blessings
Lea Ann
