Mary-Lee Blemings

Earning Forgiveness Mary-Lee Blemings

Mothers will often say, "I did my best." I cannot say that. My father molested my daughters, and I let them down. But it is never too late to make amends, to regain trust, to rebuild loving relationships. This is the story of what happened to our our family after I became aware of the sexual abuse my girls were enduring. I made many mistakes, torn between the love I had for my parents and the love I had for my own children. It is more than a story-it is a hopeful guide to anyone who may have made similarly poor choices in confusing and traumatic situations. From the time of the revelation to modern day, I point out my errors, but more importantly, I suggest what I could have/should have done. Though it took me many years to understand what I needed to do, I did take responsibility for my role. I describe what I did to repair the damage I had done. This was a labor of love, written with the blessing of my family, with contributions from both of my daughters.

I am a senior, and though I am so happy to be reunited in love with my adult children, I sincerely wish I had started this healing journey much earlier in life. Perhaps the reader will gain some insight and wisdom from my experience.