Innocence Lost

I met a girl today at work, a young teenager, barely sixteen years old, who's life is worlds away from my own in every way---yet I found her in a valley similar to one I have crossed. She was sexually assault at the public pool at which I'm working, by another patron a few years older than she. Being the most senior female on duty I was tasked to stay with her and offer what support, assistance, comfort I could. I was present throughout the afternoon while the unfortunate young lady had to repeat her side of the incident to numerous police officials, park rangers and detectives. Each time she began to shake more, whether from being dressed only in her wet swim suit and towel, or from the realization of what had almost occurred.

How to comfort? What to say? Mostly, I said nothing. I simply prayed. Prayed for wisdom. Prayed for this young lady as her innocence was being taken from her yet again by this sin laden world. Prayed for peace that I may remain calm in the situation. Prayed that my own emotions would stay in check.

You see I've been where she's been-a place of confusion and shame after a trust has been broken.
When a young girls innocence is tainted by the perversion of another human, How do you heal? How do you learn to trust again? How do you return to life? Through those weeks and months I had to walk the valley, I held tight to the Great Physician. His faithfulness and truth brought stability to my life that no man could shake. As I clung to His promises and comfort He lead me to paths of righteousness-In all the aftermath and throughout the trial I believe I never sinned against my antagonist. God removed any bitterness, hatred, and disgust from my heart and gave me a pity, forgiveness and love. An operation of that caliber is truly the work of a Great Physician! It was no accident that I was in a position to help comfort and heal another by displaying the Grace He has given to me. All Glory to God for His infinite wisdom! Amen.