To all the men and women who choose to keep their #metoo story to themselves or off of social media,

I’m sure you’ve been seeing a lot of “#metoo” status posts on your Facebook and Twitter lately. Some even coming from your family or close friends. You thought about posting it to yours didn't you? You typed it out and almost hit the post button, but then you stopped and deleted it. Something inside you said “stop, don’t do it.” Maybe it was because you thought your story wasn't as bad as others, or maybe it was because you didn't want to be that vulnerable, or maybe it was because it was a long time ago and you’ve moved on since then, or maybe it’s too fresh in your mind. Maybe it’s because you didn't want people to ask questions about it, or maybe it’s because you didn’t want to post something that dark, deep and personal on your wall, or maybe you just straight up didn’t want to. Whatever the reason may be, or if you don’t think you have a reason at all, it’s perfectly acceptable.

You consciously chose to stay silent, but I’m not here to tell you that you’re a part of the problem, like some people would argue. I’m here to tell you that I support you. Your story is exactly that. Yours. And because it is yours, you don't have to tell anyone, you can tell certain people, or you can be open and honest about it to the public. It’s ultimately your choice who knows your story.

Staying silent about your story doesn't mean that you’re less than other people. It doesn't mean that you are not brave, or strong. It doesn’t mean that you’re part of the problem, or encouraging the act of sexual assault, harassment, or rape. It doesn’t mean that it didn’t happen to you because you didn’t talk about it. It doesn't mean that you’re handling everything well and having no problem dealing with this experience. But what it does mean is that you’re not comfortable or unwilling to share it. It means that you have made a conscious choice to keep this personal experience to yourself. It means that you are human and you can do what you want with your thoughts and life. It means that yes it still happened to you. It means that you choose to deal with and handle it differently than others. It means that you are staying true to yourself and doing what you want and that’s exactly what you should be doing.

So to all of the men and women who have chosen to keep their #metoo story off of social media, I support you. I support all of those who have been impacted by sexual assault, harassment, or rape. Whether you posted “#metoo” on your wall and shared your story, or if you kept it to yourself and didn't post anything to your wall, you are supported, you are heard, and you are loved.