This collection of experiences, shared by people of all genders and backgrounds from all over the world, demonstrates how the issues of sexual assault, harassment, and "slut" shaming affect many of our lives in deep, often dangerous ways. Use these stories to expand your understanding and share them with anyone in your life who could benefit from this insight. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without consent.
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I fell for a boy two years older than me in my first year at a new school, and it was the stupidest thing to have confessed to him and be in a relationship with him. I knew we wouldn't last from the start, but I just held on to that hope... that false hope. Well, he had a reputation of being touchy when it came to being around girls, but he swore that he had changed. His studies weren't that good, but I told people that he's smart but just not when it comes to grades. (Again, I do not know why I did all this.) I was always taught to respect my own body, and I did. On one outing he had 'accidentally' hit my private part when I was wearing shorts, and I just said 'It's okay,' but still I mentally jotted that in my brain. He became possessive after I lost my first kiss to him; I couldn't talk to boys without him coming up to me and listening to our conversation, so I broke up with him on good terms. My friends had paired me up with him again, but we ended our relationship with an argument. He said hurtful things and I came to realise how stupid I was for even caring. He regretted what he said and told his friends about what happened. People started saying that I was so proud and boastful to be his girlfriend even when I wasn't even dating him, and the word spread to other teachers - teachers I don't even know. What eventually came out of this was a whole string of rumours, extra spread of the 'news' through teachers (yes, teachers), after-class talks with my English teacher about whether or not that 'bright and interesting student' within me was still present, even though my friends have noticed no change in me. I don't give two hoots about him now, but I'm just scared that my teachers would think badly of me. I cannot explain myself. I have no way out. It's ongoing and I'm scared. Note to the author: Since you submitted this account anonymously, I don't have your contact information. Please reach out to a parent or teacher (not one of the ones who is victimizing you) for help immediately. You are NOT alone, and there IS a way out of all this. You can overcome it, just like the women who have shared their stories here before you. Judging from your spelling of certain words, I am assuming you're in the UK. Please visit www.samaritans.org and check out the resources available to you.
I am always here to talk, as well. Love, Emily Comments are closed.
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