DEAR ABBY: I was brutally raped a few months ago by a man I had thought was kind and gentle. Afterward, I learned that he had also been violently abusive to his ex-wife and former girlfriend.
He's in jail for now, but I will have to testify against him in court soon, and I'm scared to death.
Everyone tells me to be brave and speak out, but I just want to put this all behind me. It keeps preying on my mind, and I'm frightened at night when I'm home alone. I'm afraid I'll never feel safe again. I have these nightmares that he escapes and beats me to death. Did I do the wrong thing when I reported him? -- FRIGHTENED IN IDAHO
DEAR FRIGHTENED: No, you did the right thing. Permit me to add my voice to the chorus of those urging you to be brave and testify. By standing up for yourself, you will also heal yourself. However, you should also be receiving support from a rape crisis center during this difficult time. And when you go to court, you should have a victim's advocate by your side. Pick up the phone and call (800) 656-4673. It's the toll-free number of the Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network. They will guide you to the help you need.