Many people see child abuse itself as the entirety of the problem.  However, there are larger issues surrounding abuse, including the way it is addressed. The fact is that we, as adults, have not directly taken on the issues of child abuse as a community-wide issue that requires all of us to solve. Abuse, and sexual abuse in particular, is rarely discussed outright. Opening our conversations along with our hearts is a large part of the solution.

Such a solution involves awareness, vigilance, and relentless compassion.  It takes us being willing to step out of our comfort zone to report suspected child abuse. It takes less blame and more action. It takes the community to surround the child and the family to begin the healing.  

Child abuse is a community problem.  All of us have the power to prevent it, to stop it if it is occurring, and to help heal the bodies and hearts of children.  It is our responsibility to the next generation to do so.