mandyfins, I totally understand your hesitancy in pursuing this through the courts. Justice doesn't always prevail, unfortunately. Following through is very difficult to say the least and shaky knees, sweaty palms and a racing heart can all be part of the package. Then there's the question, "Would it just be simpler to let it go and not fight back?" I struggled with that one. My attacker was indicted by the grand jury, and after meeting with the prosecutor who explained to me the pros and cons of going to trial, I decided a trial was the way to go. The defendant's attorney was seeking a plea bargain for a lesser charge. The prosecutor representing me explained the difference between the charges. After hearing what he said, it only took me a few seconds to reach my decision which was to proceed with a trial and not accept the plea bargain. What helped me reach that decision were the words that went through my mind, "Trust the process". I trusted the process. The trial came, I testified and justice prevailed. The jury found him guilty.

Am I doing okay now? Hardly! The assault happened just down the street from my home. It's hard to forget when I have to pass that spot every time I leave my subdivision. The SOB stole from me the safe feeling I had living here. Till this day I find it very difficult to walk through my subdivision. For that matter, I find it hard to go walking anywhere by myself. I deluded myself thinking I left all those kinds of ugly experiences back in NYC when I moved away. Surprise, surprise! They can happen anywhere. I learned no place is safe. My internal radar for detecting danger seems to always be in active mode.

I hope your inner guide will help lead you to making the right decision in your son's case. How does your son feel about all of this? Has he expressed his wishes about it?

Take gentle care and keep safe.