I have found the best way to show compassion for myself is to be unconditional with another person (no judgement, blame, guilt or shame). Look at their experience as the experience they need to go through in this stage of their life because some how and some way it is there to show them how they can be love, and not live their lives through fear. Everyone has their own experiences that they give themselves because that is the way they need to discover their love. It is their willingness to discover their love that determines how long they need to stay in that experience. No right or wrong, it just is what it is, and the people in their lives that are surrounding them are just assisting them in discovering how to be love for themselves; from the pimps, to the johns to the abusive boyfriends.

I am sorry, but not surprised

But this is a child - just out of her teen age years. She has a chance. A whole life to live out. She can transcend this.
Who, among us, will be the ones to throw the stones? We have make mistakes - not always so publicized. We were lucky no one found out

Thanks for adding to the discussion here. You have done much to help the helpless in your life. And have fought the battles, as an attorney for the poor, for so many who could not defend themselves.

I honor your comments.

Thank you, Linda.

She did (this is from her myspace page, “When I was 17, I left home. It was my decision and I’ve never looked back. Left my hometown. Left a broken family. Left abuse. Left an older brother who had already split. Left and learned what it was like to have everything, and lose it, again and again. Learned what it was like to wake up one day and have the people you care about most gone. I have been alone. I have abused drugs.”

That’s batting 1000 based on your experience in Chicago.

Your post was wonderful to read, especially in light of the cracks and jokes about Kristen.

Sending love.

In the world of illegal drugs, both users and dealers are breaking the law and are arrested if caught. Why is it that with prostitution the women involved are arrested, charged, convicted and repeat offenders, but we don’t hear about the johns and the pimps? Do they just evade news coverage?

My heart breaks for every woman who feels her only ability to earn a living is prostitution. There is no bright side to one of the world’s oldest professions, and IMHO, there never will be. Making the women the ones arrested most often adds another layer of humiliation to an already humiliating existence.

Many of us “prostitute” ourselves to earn the almighty dollar when we do something we hate because it puts food on the table. It’s usually not illegal or immoral or even dangerous. We just hate it. But it’s nothing like the real thing I’m sure.

Your comments on my blog have been so supportive to me. When I decided to become a blogger, I never realized that you actually had an opportunity to make friends.

When I read your articles, I feel you are talking to me. Like a close friend!

Since I consider you absolutely brilliant and a great writer -
I am very happy that you liked my article.

Something that speaks truth is always easier to read.

Glad you were intrigued by my post even though you do not agree with it?

One day I will write a book about all the different women and their backgrounds. I have a two inch file of essays they have written that would curl your hair.

This account is just an overview - for now. Keep watching.

And thanks for coming over to my blog. First time. I think your blog is beautiful!

I know from reading your fascinating book, Two Empty Bedrooms, your account of being a foster parent, that you have met these women.

You know I am not exaggerating at all. If I ever really told some of the things I heard, it would be too sad to read.

No, we have not talked for a while by email. But I do read your blog and your great advice - and no nonsense way of dealing with things.

I am just hanging out in my life doing ordinary things. My best friend is very ill and that takes some energy to watch it.

Thanks for the compliment about my writing. It means the world to me!