Stepping Out of the Shadows

Laveranues Coles, an All-Pro wide receiver for the New York Jets, made headlines recently when he revealed having been sexually abused as a young boy.

Mr. Coles spoke eloquently about the pain that the sexual abuse caused for him, and made references to the professional help he received that played a role in his recovery. Although he said that he has been able to put the abuse behind him, he indicated that there are still times when the subject resurfaces and there is a need to talk about it again. He also pointed out that denial holds us back as a society from acknowledging the full scope of this problem.

Like many children, Mr. Coles was abused by someone close to him – in this case by his step-father. Once he disclosed the abuse, his mother took immediate steps to protect him, divorcing her husband and seeking out treatment for her son. Unfortunately, not all children are as fortunate. Some never find a way to disclose the abuse, while tragically, others reveal the abuse but are not believed or adequately protected by the adults in their lives

While some entertainers and professional athletes seem to use their celebrity status only for selfish purposes, there are also those who, like Mr. Coles, try to use the platform they have to make a real difference in people’s lives. He said that he was making this information public in the hopes that it might help other children who are being abused to come forward for help. I believe that his actions will have such an impact.

Many people, particularly boys and male adolescents, look upon a star athlete as the embodiment of strength, courage, and masculinity. Mr. Coles has set a wonderful example for them – and all of us - to emulate. He has shown true fearlessness when it really counts, and in doing so, has offered comfort and hope to many victims of sexual abuse, young and old alike.

Article Source: http://www.articledestination.com

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