“When UPS delivered the package with my book in it my hands trembled. I grabbed it and found a closet to hide in so that I could read it alone. After finishing my story I realized that it is not in me anymore, the trauma is out of me. When I read the words the bullies said to me, I felt sorry for them. I’ve been asked to speak at a few events. Each time I tell more of my story, not to seek sympathy but because I know that some kid will relate to it and will feel understood. I think everyone should write their book. It helps others and basically, it gets the story out of you so you can more forward.”

“I didn’t think I was different before writing my story. My twin sister and I are Haitian and our parents are white. Writing the story about our adoption made me think more deeply about my race, family, and friends. I realized that I am different but I love my differences. I also realized that I have been accepted and included in my community and my friends love me for who I am. Several friends commented that they felt like they knew me better because of my book. They said that they didn’t want to ask the questions that I answered in the book and it made them feel closer to me.”

Sharing our stories helps us to…

• • Unlock trauma
  • Put our story into perspective
  • Understand God’s hand in our life
  • Experience the peace of accepting the past
  • Help others heal
  • Receive positive affirmation
  • Move forward