i consider myself a survivor of child abuse ,,but it wasn't until i was well into my 40's that i confronted it and my mother and the pain i had gone through as a child with a uncaring cruel step father ...is strange we blame ourselves for all that happens to us ,,such as 'if i had been a better child,,or maybe if i was prettier,,or smarter,,etc ,,etc,, etc",,i carried guilt with me for years and still do at times but its easier now and i have had a loving husband of 38 yrs and children and now grandchildren to help me ,,whats most important is i can talk about it now and not hide it ,,what a relief that is ,,,,thanks for the chance to say something and god bless all..carol