Inspired by Youngblood writer

This is a reaction to Ednalyn Lebrino’s Youngblood article “The day I died” (11/5/17). My classmates and I read and discussed it in one of our classes at Jose Abad Santos Memorial School-Quezon City the day after its publication. I am writing to say how much Lebrino’s piece moved me.

I know that even in today’s society, some people still consider it taboo to speak about issues that are too delicate and sensitive, especially one as serious as child abuse. But at the same time, I’ve also observed that people are becoming more aware of this ever-growing problem that affects many children and teenagers. Lebrino’s story about the abuse she experienced from the hands of her stepfather was really heartbreaking. In many instances, nobody hears the voice of a powerless little kid, so I admire her for sharing her story, which was aptly published during this “Month of the Child.”

What really struck me is that even after all those trials and trauma that she went through, she still came out of the experience full of so much love and forgiveness. This is not easy for most people. Like her, I am an active member of my church’s youth group. But in all honesty, imagining her situation, I think that to forgive would be quite difficult.

Many people in our generation resort to vengeful behavior and violence, especially after experiencing something as harrowing. That’s why it’s quite inspiring how she learned to forgive those who wronged her. She came out stronger than before and with more honor, too.

Inquirer’s Nov. 9 editorial “In the Month of the Child” mentioned that, among other things, “the Convention on the Rights of the Child acknowledges that children have the right to
express their opinions, be protected from abuse or exploitation, and to have privacy.”

So may our government’s efforts not just reduce cases of child abuse in our country but completely eradicate them.

I hope that Lebrino, as well as many others who experienced and suffered from such incidents, find strength to eventually heal
and carry on with their lives.

KRISTIENNE REBUENO, [email protected]