Emotional abuse is heart and soul mutilation and often is the cruelest and most deeply ingrained form of abuse. When it is visited upon a child the scars are deep and devastating. It occurs when a child is, in anyway, intentionally or otherwise, continually criticized, belittled or demeaned over a prolonged period of time, eroding the victim's self-confidence, sense of self-worth and trust in his or her own perceptions.

Sadly, the effects of this long-term, systematic diminishment of a human life can take decades for its victims to overcome and heal from (as in my case...) where the chances of ever escaping from my victimization on the mean streets of Las Vegas, Nevada, where I was devastatingly addicted to crack cocaine, were slim-to-non-existent.

Yet, I am blessed and living proof that miracles do happen. Every day, I count my blessings for not only still being alive but also living the life I once only dreamed about as a child. If I could overcome such severe adversities in my own life and return to my own innocence, there isn't one soul on this planet who I will lose faith in. For, as the old adage goes... where there is breath there is life, and where there is life there is hope.

Ruptured Heart is the first release in a three-part series that tells a story of one womans courageous journey to overcome and return to innocence. Available Fall 2012

Ruptured Heart

Toni Cathleen