The Little Girl Next Door

'The Little Girl Next Door' Written by R.L. RotaryThis is a story of terror and of grace: a true story of the severe and sustained physical and sexual abuse of a family of children by their father. The story of grace within the story of terror weaves and warps among the broken bodies, anguished minds and overwrought spirits of these innocent children.You are invited to listen for the unbidden grace, the angels in human form, the saving companionship of horses and dogs and a jumble of charming, unusual young friends.Told in the voice of the eldest daughter, you will be immediately inspired by the unbreakable spirit of this delightful child, her undaunted personality, her strength and skills developed in the most unpromising of circumstances.Compelling storytelling at its best, you will no sooner have wiped your tears from sadness than you will be laughing at the antics of this one who so brilliantly levels the playing field as only she can.More importantly, you are invited to look at your own secrets, to embrace those skittish clouds of flitting memories that do not seem quite real, that hold your pain, sometimes terrifying pain. You will know you are not alone as you witness this child’s lifelong journey through the darkest of places into the eventual illumination and peace which only the courageous may find.This story of terror and grace will help you to know to your core that you are not alone. At best, it may encourage you to take that first small step, then stand, and then whisper your truth.As the author of this book and the main character of the story, I was touched by the stories shared by every day people I didn't know who helped me gather evidence to support my memories as I researched past places and events in my life as part of my healing process. My hope in sharing my story is to let others know they are not alone, and that there is life after childhood abuse and that the memories that pop up later in life do not have to control your fate. Familiarity makes us feel not alone. My hope is to make aware of how easily this kind of abuse can slip under the radar and not be flagged by others. We all have a little girl or boy next door that may need us to speak up for them and be their advocate. Let your intuition be your guide!The names in this book have been changed to protect the innocent, and I have used a pen name. For me the message is what is important to be heard, the players could be anyone, it is the realization that needs to be heard, seen and shared so that others can over-come the long term effects that can plague survivors as adults. I am blessed to have been given a second chance on many levels. If I can help one person, I will have done what I set out to do in putting pen to paper.