As I stood and looked into the mirror at the reflection before me, there were so many overwhelming emotions flowing through my mind. I felt sadden; yet joyous. I felt lonely; yet loved. I felt dismayed; yet hopeful. I felt defeated; yet victorious. My physical appearance showed only what could only be seen on the outside. It exhibited physical scars inflicted as a means of survival. However, there were more unseen wounds deep within. I bear not only physical scars, but emotional scars that go deeper into the true essence of my life. People who see me merely see what is reflected on the outside; they have no knowledge of the true pain that dwelt deep within. I do. I have firsthand knowledge of that pain. It was a part of me. I know all the deadly secrets that lay beneath the surface. I am now willing to share with others these things that broke me and redeemed me into the person I am today. I look at myself today and feel so amazed and astonished at the woman I have become. I find it hard to believe that I am that same person who withstood the adversities of a life that sought to destroy my very being. Before I accepted Christ into my life, I felt that there was no hope for me. I had sunken into a pit of total darkness. I am so grateful to God for bringing me out of that pit into His marvelous light. I feel it is inevitable that I tell my story so that others who may feel like there is no hope can see that with God, all things are possible. So, please open your minds and your hearts to my story of defeat and redemption. I must warn you; these recaps are vivid and explicit. This is the only way I know how to paint a true picture-with truth.