It's HARD

Sometimes it is hard to be a mom and watch your child struggle.

Tonight is the prom at Annie's old high school. "EVERYONE" is going. She isn't. Her junior/senior prom, depending on how you look at it, and she isn't able to go.

We try and tell her it isn't fair and she will get over the hurt. She will too. She is a very strong young woman.

But when you are 17, beautiful and unable to go to the prom for fear of being beaten to a bloody pulp, I am not sure anything else matters.

Girls can be so cruel to each other. She has been forced to learn about life at an age when girls should be enjoying themselves.

The sad thing is there are "Annies" all over the world going through the same thing. Most don't have someone to turn to and help deal with the problems and pain. My heart aches for them.

If I could say anything to them it would be, "Please hold out just one more day. Don't let them win by giving up on life. You are stronger than that."

We love you Annie, girl. Hang in there. You are so much better than this current situation. Cry if you want but don't let it consume you. Be strong. You are very courageous. Remember we are always here.

Smile. It makes everyone wonder what you are up to. :)