Survivor wants to confront abuser from years ago
"Dear Doctor: I don't think I would have contacted you independently to say this, but since you have contacted me, I have decided to respond. I want you to know that I remember like it was yesterday all the times you fondled me, forcibly kissed me and sexually harassed me -- while I was a teenager in your employ, and quite helpless to do anything about it.
"I am a parent now. I hope my daughters are never victimized by a person they revere and trust, the way I was. I've tried to empower them to fight back, just as they have encouraged me to fight back now.
"Mainly I want you to know that even though you victimized me at a young age, your sexually aggressive and criminal behavior toward me does not define me, but for me it will always define you.
"So yes, I am having a happy birthday. Thanks for asking."
Dear Amy: I am a 60-year-old happily married woman who has met a man who is more of a friend to me than my husband is!
I have become financially involved with this man, lending him money for a new home and a business. I have romantic feelings for him, which I know will go nowhere, and I'm trying to separate friendship from sexual desire.
I'm not worried about the money. I like helping him because he is a deserving person and he is truly responsible and will pay me back when he can.
He recently split from his wife, and I don't believe he has feelings for me, but I'm not sure.
I guess I'm looking for some feedback from you. What do you think?
-- Wondering Woman
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