It’s been 12 years since I last saw you.

Pop,

It’s been 12 years since I last saw you.

People say I’m growing into a beautiful young woman. I know you remember me, but in your mind, I am still that helpless little girl.

You hurt me.

You took something from me that was never yours to take—something I never wanted to give. What you did was cruel, unjust, and something no one should ever have to endure.

For years, I’ve questioned myself and the people around me. I’ve carried the weight of what you did, but I refuse to let it define me any longer.

And yet, I want you to know—I forgive you.

Not for your sake, but for mine. I refuse to let your actions chain me to the past. I hope God finds His way into your heart, that you seek Him, and that you truly understand the depth of the pain you caused.

Maybe one day, we will meet again in heaven, and there, you can finally give me the apology you never did.

But until that day, know this: you will never have control over me again.

My mind no longer dwells in the shadows of what happened. I have found peace. I have come to terms with my past. You no longer have power over my life.

I am strong. I am whole. I am beautiful. I am smart. And I am free.

God has given me that freedom, and I pray that one day, He will grant you the same.