How Could You

Content Warning: Sexual Abuse Involving Minors

After some disturbing news came to light about a teacher from my high school seeking paid sex from minors, and then even more infuriating and sickening revelations of other cover-ups in the wake of it, I haven't been able to get it off my mind. Something must be done. ⁣

⁣ ---⁣

⁣ How could you?⁣ ⁣

We trusted you. ⁣ ⁣

In our formative years - girls, not yet women - we looked to you for guidance. We asked you for help when we didn't understand mathematical concepts. We talked, smiled, laughed, learned, stressed out, felt comforted and reassured by you when we struggled in class. We were girls, all of us, around you. Every. Damn. Day. ⁣ ⁣

We trusted you. ⁣ ⁣

But the story has changed now. We see you in a different light. Perhaps, it would be more accurate to say that we now see you in the shadows.⁣

⁣ Our hearts are shattered. Our minds reeling with confusion and despair. Betrayal, horror, shock, sadness, anger, fear, worry...this cacophony of emotion has erupted in our community. ⁣ ⁣

How did this happen?!⁣ ⁣

Why did this happen?!⁣ ⁣

How could you do this?!?⁣ ⁣

How could you let us all down in such an unimaginably horrific way? ⁣

⁣ How could you seek to take advantage of a girl, just like one of us, those you were meant to teach, mentor, support, encourage, and protect?⁣ ⁣

What happened to you?⁣ ⁣

Who can we trust now?⁣ ⁣

My soul is tired of this bullshit.