Your Story is Your Strength

“The abused are shamed and made out to be liars. The damaging effects of being abused within a spiritual context is another layer of abuse. And yet you are made to feel like it was your fault and you are the unclean one. It’s deep. And it’s a shame that is oftentimes unbearable, and if left untreated and hidden will cause lifelong consequences.” - Kristen Harness, Founder, Extended Hands For Hope

When I created The Global League of Women podcast, I wanted to create a safe space for women to share their stories, but what I didn’t expect was just how powerful the stories would be, not only for our listeners, but also for the women themselves.

Keeping a painful story to yourself can be like poison, and the act of releasing it into the world is, in some cases, lifesaving. This week’s story was one of those instances.

In Episode 21 of The GLOW Podcast, Kristen Harness opens up about her own experience of abuse within The Catholic Church at a time in her life when she was most vulnerable and desperate for love. She had turned to religion to find a safe space, but what she found instead was the exact opposite. 

Today, she is the Founder and Executive Director of Extended Hands of Hope, a nonprofit that offers safe housing and supportive services to survivors of sex trafficking. Her work shines a light on the unspoken darkness of this industry. Through this work and with mental fortitude, she decided to share her own story on The GLOW to heal and recover. Listen on Apple Podcasts // Spotify

In this episode, you will learn:

• The prevalence of human trafficking and religious abuse at all levels
• How psychological manipulation keeps people in abusive relationships
• How sharing your story can be a source of hope and strength for others 

Voices That Inspire

Reading: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

“As you move toward a dream, the dream moves toward you.”

Playing: Underdog, Alicia Keys

“So I sing a song for the hustlers trading at the bus stop

Single mothers waiting on a check to come

Young teachers, student doctors

Sons on the frontline knowing they don't get to run

This goes out to the underdog

Keep on keeping at what you love

You'll find that someday soon enough

You will rise up, rise up"

Thanks for reading,

~ Lisa Carmen Wang, The GLOW ?

PS - as always, I am here for you. I know that these are very stressful times. Feel free to reply back with any thoughts - including your favorite emoji or GIF :) ????