Growing up my mom always told my brother and me to think before we spoke negatively or acted in wrongful ways because there would we consequences. But, NEVER did she tell me that if I spoke my truth and had the courage to be brave would I face consequences for my actions.

That is exactly what is happening to Dr. Christine Blasey Ford.

This woman, a victim, and survivor, had the courage to speak her truth. Which, I can't even imagine, had to involve plenty of courage, considering the power and position of her attacker. I'm sure this is something she would have loved to keep her name out of. I'm sure she would have loved for this to also not have happened in the first place.

I've read and heard a lot of commentary in the form of "Why say something now?" "Why after 36 years? Must be to destroy him?" "Wouldn't it just have been easier to not say anything?"

This completely outrages me. It just represents such ignorance and such a lack of empathy we, as a community have.

First, we need to look into the situation and try in some way to understand. 36 years ago the climate for speaking out was vastly different than today. At that point in time, you were shushed and dismissed. And, at fifteen she probably wouldn't have had anyone to take her seriously also, at fifteen to process what has just happened to you alone, is beyond awful.

Second and most importantly, THAT IS TERRIFYING. It is incredibly traumatic and there is NO time limit for when someone should report or should feel safe to speak about it. PS: you never do. The experience in itself is invasive, it strips you of any safety you felt in your body and makes you feel so small you could just disappear to escape the pain. Presumably, it would have most likely eaten her alive to see a man who has committed such an act to lead the country as the supreme court justice. Could you imagine how wrong that would feel?

Her coming forward I'm sure was not easy in the slightest but to quote Dr. Ford, "I am here today not because I want to be. I am terrified. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty."

For those who question her intentions, shame on you. Please ask yourself do you truly believe there is something she can gain from this? Do you believe she truly thought she would attain some personal gain?

Her life is forever affected and has been a living nightmare. She has put one of the most traumatizing events on trial and has had to publicly relive them in front of the world.