23 Comments

Sabrina, thank you, thank you, thank you! What a story; and of course it characterizes trauma and toxic stress as only true life can. Thank you for having the courage to share it.

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Thanks. At this point I have no secrets, that's one good thing about getting older.

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Thank you. Several decades ago I helped organize an effort to help women and children trapped in abusive homes, so I have witnessed the long-standing effects on women and children and the difficult struggles involved in trying to escape and rebuild lives. It still goes on; we still need to hear and help.

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Sabrina, thanks for telling your story. Sometimes people take for granted the niceties in life not realizing the struggles others experience. From what you say your mother was not only beautiful but a hero too. And you should be very proud of yourself for what did for your family and what you're doing for all of us now.

Happy Mothers Day to all mothers and non mothers who help play the role!

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thank you.

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Thank you so much for sharing this. I'm afraid I don't have any other words to write just now. My heart and mind are too full of your words.

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Thank you

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Thank you so much for sharing this. You are an incredible writer with a powerful message. I hope you know that you are not alone. Thank you for reminding us that we are not alone also.

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Thank you for the kind words. I understand fully that I am not alone, my mom was not alone, you are not alone. It's a bittersweet recognition.

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That was excellent. Thank yo

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Sabrina, thank you so much for sharing your story. I also understand the angst of Mother's Day for those who have lost theirs, and the consequent family disfunction. Your courage is an inspiration.

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This is a beautifully written, candidly truthful account of sorrow - of a sorrowful horror that is all too real, and all too systemic - and so beyond acceptable for a nation as prosperous as the United States.

Thank you Sabrina for showing us what courage truly looks like. We all could take a Haake from this piece and trust the hearts of our "extended" human family - self included. Sharing our stories openly, with dignity intact, is the sacred provenance of survivors the world over.

The honesty you have shared has truly touched my heart, and inspired me to follow suit - even as a person of absolute no significance.

This is a once in a decade truthful accounting of the highly lethal status quo we are all guilty of perpetuating to varying degrees.

Sabrina Haake shared her soul in this piece as well as the most consequential piece of advice for 2024: Vote.

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Jon thank you for your kind words of encouragement. If you write your story, where would I find it? I tried to reciprocate and subscribe to your Substack but I couldn’t find it. If you have a blog or some thing for me to subscribe to please advise. Peace and love to you.

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also, there’s no such thing as a person of no significance. There’s no one with greater significance, nor less. 3

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I'm honored!

To date, I have only written comments on pieces by people such as yourself - pieces written in good faith and centered on the human condition.

I really hope to publish a piece of my own in the very near future - it's been a goal of mine! When this takes place I will certainly let you know. Peace and love to you and yours, Sabrina.

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Jon, it’s already quite apparent that you are a talented writer. Just start writing, you’ll be surprised. Even if you don’t like what you write. Even if you have to write ‘and’ and ‘the’ repeatedly. Just keep at it. and then let me know so I can read it.😊

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"'And' and 'the'"... I see you already know me a little haha.

Thank you so much for your encouragement, Sabrina. It means everything coming from a human being like you! I hope you have a wonderful day today. As always, thank you for choosing to share your voice. We are all a little better for it.

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Thank you for sharing your story. Surviving and getting past such a horrific childhood is also a tribute to your strength and determination. Statistically speaking, you are so right in saying that the vast majority of traumatized children cannot get past their past and continue the cycle. On a separate note, Indiana is one of the most conservative states around - with archaic laws. Indiana doesn't deserve a shining star (that's you), more interested in preserving a liveable world for all creatures than political power at any cost. Don't beat yourself up about it. You rock!

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I love you, Cherisse. And not just because we’re kindred spirits with similar pasts.

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Very sorry to hear about your mother's passing Sabrina. Perhaps do something tomorrow on Mother's Day in her memory.

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thanks, I’m planning a walk in the woods. Mother’s Day has always been conflicting for me, the hallmark card version does not fit with reality for many people.. I know I’m not alone in this.

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The story of abuse is very familiar to me, First as a victim, then an abuser. Same background as you. Foster homes, catholic orphanage, plus. What a mess.

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thanks Hair!

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