The Authors
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The Authors *
Susan York
Author
In late 2009, I was prompted to write my story after an incredible woman-Vanessa Harris, that I had known for only two months, somehow broke through my vault of secrets that I had kept hidden to protect myself and others. It was unexpectedly painful, shame filled and terrifying. The jagged ground, once pathless to me, became smooth after an encounter in her basement.
It would be seventeen years later that I found the courage with love, prayers and support from many, MANY of you that I was able to power through the pain, rather than park there.
You might recognize parts of your own story reflected in mine, even if the situation or events are different. Healing no matter what your situation, is waiting for you just as it was for me. I would encourage you not to stay stuck and delay yourself from getting to live and walk in the most glorious rest of your life, that can begin today!
Love and Blessings Always!
Vanessa Harris
Author
My name is Vanessa, and I am the friend Susan mentioned—the one who saw the mask and refused to walk away.
When I first met Susan, I was immediately drawn to her. She had this infectious cheerfulness and a rare gift for making me feel like I truly belonged. But back then, I didn't realize I was watching a masterclass in the "happy routine." The real Susan was tucked safely inside a vault masked by her captivating smile.
As our friendship grew, the picture became clearer. I realized that Susan was a survivor. That smile and dutifulness were her tools of survival. Her body had simply become an expert at staying alive; her nervous system was stuck in a permanent state of high alert, and she had learned that the safest way to move through the world was to perform. For Susan, being "okay" wasn't just a mood; it was a survival strategy. My role wasn't to pick the lock on that vault, but simply to stay present, even when she wasn't ready to “let me in.”