 | | | | Inside Lives: everyone has a story inside them | | | |
"Sometimes when I meet people they can almost be afraid to talk about rape or forgiveness because it's all so serious. They feel they can't laugh--that it would be inappropriate. But because it is so serious, laughter can break the ice."
Jillis 39 years old and is married with three sons. She enjoys getting a good nights sleep and being creative. Pigs are her favourite animal.
I wanted to tell my story as although lots of people have heard my story before, they have only heard the serious side. They only ever see me as serious. I wanted to show there was more to me than a four word tag.
Ealing Vicarage Rape Victim - That's been my tag for the past 18 years, because at the age of 21 as a virgin I was raped, buggered and indecently assaulted whilst my father and boyfriend were beaten up by burglars who came to our home. I make no complaint about this tag as it has enabled me to challenge politicians and work for change. I've been on TV and radio talking about the serious subjects of rape and forgiveness many times. I believe forgiveness gives you freedom. Freedom to move on without being held back by the past.
People often think they know me, they've read my book, followed my progress and know about my Christianity, know that God has given me the strength to go on. But the one thing people don't seem to know about me is that I can laugh. Sometimes when I meet people they can almost be afraid to talk about rape or forgiveness because it's all so serious. They feel they can't laugh--that it would be inappropriate. But because it is so serious, laughter can break the ice, and give freedom to talk about the serious concerns that they have.
Laughter is a gift from God. I love laughter and it is very healing. You don't have to be better to laugh, but laughing can help make you better. The day after my rape a very good friend and I laughed away the ghosts associated with my bedroom. Sometimes laughter may seem inappropriate, but if you laugh with others instead of at them everyone gains; and laughter is infectious. So if you do meet me, don't be worried to talk about laughter or rape. Just don't expect that I'll always be serious. | |
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 | BBC Stoke and Staffordshire
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