The Power of Mattering: Empowering Child Physical and Sexual Abuse Survivors through Compassion and Support
In a world where every child's wellbeing should be paramount, the concept of "mattering" holds profound significance. As the Navajo County Attorney and an advocate for child welfare, I am deeply committed to ensuring that child physical and sexual abuse survivors understand the power of their existence, their voices and their stories. In this post, I want to delve into the transformative impact of mattering and how it empowers abuse survivors to heal, thrive and reclaim their sense of self-worth. Helping victims of child physical and sexual abuse heal and become survivors is the major goal of the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center.
The Essence of Mattering: Mattering is more than just being noticed—it is the intrinsic understanding a child has that they are valued, important and deserving of respect and care. For child abuse survivors, embracing their sense of mattering is a pivotal step toward healing.
Reclaiming Identity: Abuse experienced in childhood can shatter a survivor's sense of identity and worth. Through mattering, survivors are reminded that their experiences do not define them—they are individuals with potential, dreams and the right to a safe, fulfilling life.
A Source of Empowerment: When child abuse survivors feel that they matter, they are empowered to reclaim control over their lives. Mattering fosters resilience, encouraging survivors to use their voices and stories as tools for change.
A Healing Pathway: Mattering provides a pathway to healing by acknowledging the pain, trauma and emotions that survivors carry. It offers a space where survivors can express themselves, share their experiences and receive the support they need.
Breaking the Cycle of Shame: Mattering dispels shame, allowing child physical and sexual abuse survivors to recognize that they are not at fault for the sexual abuse they endured. This realization is instrumental in avoiding shame, promoting healing and -compassion for self.
Fostering Connection: Mattering promotes a sense of belonging and connection. Survivors find solace in knowing that they are part of a compassionate community that values their stories and advocates for their well-being. When you believe you matter, you are better able to draw upon individuals and resources in your community to bolster your recovery and strengthen and celebrate you as you begin to thrive.
Our Collective Responsibility: Imparting a sense of mattering is a responsibility shared by us all—parents, caregivers, educators, community members and elected officials. By affirming the intrinsic value of survivors of childhood abuse, we contribute to a world where every child's voice is heard and respected.
So how do we help children understand what it means to matter? We tell them – and we show through every action – that they don’t need to do anything to matter. We work to help them understand that simply by existing, they have worth. They do not have to earn acceptance by being “good,” they don’t need to prove worthy of others’ compassion or assistance through subscribing to a set of beliefs or behaving in a certain way. They have innate worth because they are human beings. They are deserving of others’ kindness, support, assistance and love. They matter because they are.
The power of mattering extends far beyond words – it is a force that transforms lives, restores hope and paves the way for a brighter future. As the Navajo County Attorney, I am committed to championing the cause of mattering for child abuse survivors, ensuring that they are supported, empowered and celebrated. Together, let us embrace the profound impact of mattering and work toward a society where every child is recognized as a precious individual, where their stories matter and where their journey towards healing is guided by compassion, understanding and unwavering support.