Sometimes a story comes to us that we know will offer our podcast listeners an important perspective on the world - that will help us all rise - to meet life's challenges. Ben's story of mental health struggles and sexual abuse is one of those. We invited him on to share so we as parents of young adults can gain insights, empathy, and better understand what it is to live through these specific challenges as a young person today.

Ben Locke graduated early from high school to start his college soccer career, but was quickly injured and unable to play. He found himself at the mercy of a school trainer who sexually abused him while he was in a vulnerable position desperate to get back on the field. Ben's story highlights how power differentials can fog decision making and influence behaviors in ways we wouldn't choose. Ben's opportunity to transfer schools was his eventual ticket out.

But from there the disbelief, anger, and eventually grief were challenging. Ben's ability to articulate his experience, including his feelings at every step of the process, is helpful for those of us who want to care for victims, prevent abuse, and understand depression. This is an episode worth listening to as you care for young people around you.

FIND MORE ABOUT BEN LOCKE

Ben Locke's -Website and Instagram

Ben Locke's Book- In Our Suffering, Lord Be Near: Prayers of Hope for the Hurting

A FEW THINGS MENTIONED

-On Fire- Book

-Helplessness produces rage

-Anger is Sad's bodyguard

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE

1. Think about a part of Ben's story that moved you, consider why that Part of his story resonated so deeply.
2. How can you respond differently to other peoples behavior or anger knowing there may be some deeper issues underneath?
3. How can you invite God to be with you or your child in the suffering in this moment?

LET’S CONNECT!

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