As more and more women seek therapy, support groups strengthen the work of healing that is happening. The system begins to move toward a healthier whole. I am grateful to be a part of joyful work. Then, gradually, she also knows in her heart that she is not. When that powerlessness is realized, empowerment begins.
Women see that they can quit the self-blame and feelings of shame on all levels.
Sometimes it comes slowly but surely. With that awareness, joy bubbles up. Virginia Newsome Vaughn is founding director of DeKalb Rape Crisis Center. She received her MSW from UNC and has worked in this field with women, families, and individuals for more than twenty-five years, helping people make planned changes to realize their dreams.