This tribute is offered to an advocate for children and adult survivors of child abuse in its many forms. She spends many hours every day counseling, coaching, and encouraging others. I hope that through this tribute you will catch a glimpse of a generous heart.

In my last entry on Darlene's site,  I spoke of eternal consequences for the unrepentant abuser. Darlene posted my article, though she views my topic from a different perspective. This post is to express my profound respect for Darlene and my appreciation of this wonderful lady.

I have linked my website to this site because there is no other site on the internet (including my own site) that offers the level of education about abuse and its effects that Darlene offers in child-abuse-effects.com

A Tribute to Someone Who Cares
(Darlene Barriere, www.child-abuse-effects.com)

She travels paths long worn with dread
by those who wander here,
With empathy and wisdom gained
through catastrophic years.
She holds the banner forth, "You can!
Rise above your past."
She proves that you are not alone
for you have come at last,
To join the ranks of those who can
And fly your banner high
She offers hope to restless souls
who've managed to survive.

by Linda Settles

Thank you Darlene for offering your time, wisdom and compassion to survivors of abuse.