Today, I want to open up and share a deeply personal story.

It's a story that may resonate with those who have faced similar struggles, especially women who have felt the weight of guilt, shame, and self-blame. I was a victim of rape. It's a difficult truth to speak out loud. I carried the burden of this horrific experience, believing it was my fault and that I had done something wrong. I kept people far away from me and escaped into a hole. The pain and confusion were overwhelming, and I buried the truth deep within me, unable to face it. But the truth is, it was not my fault. It made me realise how God loves me when I feel most unworthy and basically like trash. For the women who have walked away from the confines of the cult, I want you to know that the toxic teachings that devalued your worth as a woman were never a reflection of your true identity. In God's eyes, you are fearfully and wonderfully made. You deserve to be treated with respect, equality, and love. It's time to let go of the guilt that was never ours to bear. This is not about blaming men. There were men in my life who was there for me constantly and reminded me of being cherished and protected. It's about recognizing that women should be cherished, respected, and treated with love. In Ephesians 5:25, it says, 'Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.' This verse reminds us of the sacrificial love and honor that should characterize relationships. It emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, support, and the recognition of each person's inherent worth. To the women who have endured abuse, whether physical, emotional, or verbal, I want to say this: You are strong, resilient, and capable of reclaiming your life. It takes courage to leave toxic situations. A courage that we don’t feel but rather an action that we do. Let’s create a world where women are not blamed, shamed, or made to feel guilty for the actions of others. You are worthy of love, dignity, and happiness.