The Editor, Sir:

Sadness, hopelessness, depression, scars (physical and emotional), shame, bitterness, abandonment and low self-esteem are just a few of what many women experience on a day-to-day basis. Many of our women today are victimised and abused in unthinkable and astonishing ways and left to die. "Strengthen those things that remain and are ready to die" (The Bible). This is my purpose today.

I want to say to those women in all sections and levels of society to strengthen yourself, pick yourself up and determine that you can make it and that you will make it no matter what. Charles Swindoll states: "Life is 10 per cent what happens to you and 90 per cent how you respond to it." You have a purpose; there is a calling of greatness on your life. yes, you! Let no one tell you otherwise.

Victims scared

It was reported in last Friday's 'Prime Time News' by Superintendent Harry Daley that "sexual offences are not being reported because of shame and compromise."

Do not believe that everybody wants to see you depressed. There are those who believe in you and want to see something good happen for you. I encourage those women who have suffered abuse by cowardly and 'mentally sick' men to report it. Do not stay there and think that he loves you - find someone to confide in. Muster all the courage within you; you were not created for these low, demeaning and self-destructive actions against you.

Great women

Permit me to mention women who have accomp-lished great acts, and who have been through terrible victimisation and abuse.

Oprah Winfrey - molested by one of her mother's boyfriends - is now a billionaire and world-renowned talk show host.

Joyce Meyer - sexually assaulted by her own father - now travels the world and preaches the word of God and healing for broken lives.

I must say, that there are women here in Jamaica who have been through similar situations and have overcome. What about you? Refuse to stay where you are, speak out and act out!

You are a woman of purpose, begin to celebrate this and move forward and achieve. God bless.

I am, etc.,

NICOLA JOHNSON-RICHARDS (Mrs.)

nicolacarichards@yahoo.com

Spanish Town, St. Catherine