Valandra

Music is an integral part of my healing journey as a survivor of child sexual abuse. Writing songs helped me express emotions, fears, hopes, and dreams in ways that freed me from the shame, guilt, and silence that plagued me as a child and young adult. Some of my songs evolved out of reoccurring dreams that I experience as a source of spiritual guidance and wisdom giving me the courage and hope to persevere in difficult emotional times. Other songs are an acknowledgement of my appreciation and gratitude of the support I've received from loved ones.

The song, "Prisoner in My Own Home Blues," is an account of my experiences with and recovery from father-daughter incest. This was a difficult song to write and may be difficult for survivors and others to hear. For me, it is important to name the trauma and terror I experienced at the hands of my stepfather as well as reclaim that part of my childhood and testify as a witness to my recovery and healing.