I met this brave young lady for coffee a few years ago to talk about life and love, and was heartbroken to see her – standing alongside her parents – on the news as they shared their story during the Larry Nassar case.
Her long road to healing has brought her through depression and anxiety, to a place of freedom and peace.
Meet Morgan…
What’s your story, morning glory?
I’ve had a few challenging moments in my life, but the top one would have to be when my doctor sexually assaulted me. I didn’t know at the time that what he was doing was wrong; he was my doctor, why would I ever think he would hurt me?
This ultimately strengthened me and my trust in God. I went through some really low times of hating God, but looking back at those times, I can see Him with me every step of the way.
What did you discover about yourself during this time?
During the time of the abuse I did not discover much about myself; I was in a very low place in life. During my time of healing I discovered a lot about myself, though. I learned that God uses some of the hardest experiences in life to make you stronger.
I also learned that what happened to me does not define who I am, I am a survivor not a victim.
What did you discover about God’s character in the process?
So much. He is my healer and my comforter. He is always right there with me through everything that I allow Him to be apart of. I learned that it’s not Him who is absent or silent, it’s me. I need to be actively seeking Him in everything I do. I also learned that I am loved no matter what, and it’s a hard concept to accept sometimes but it’s the truth that I rest in.
What helped you or served you most practically during this season?
I wish my family knew what I was going through, I wish I knew what was happening to me. I think that was the hardest part was going through everything that I did and not know why I was feeling the way I was feeling.
How did this experience shape your passion today?
I don’t think this experience shaped my passion, but I do think that it encouraged my passion.
I love children, and I think this life experience has encouraged me to love them more and to make them aware of how loved and important they are.
If you could sum up your story in a single sentence, what would it be?
My life is/was challenging but I am saved by God’s grace.
What would I say to the woman facing the same struggle?
I would say that you are stronger than you think you are and this fight is not going to be easy at all, but it’s so worth it.
Coming out on the other side of the struggle makes you feel like a champion and gives you confidence you may not have had before. It also gives you a new sense of trust in God and a closer relationship with Him.
Never give up.
Favorite scripture you have clung to?
1 Peter 4:8: “Above all love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Love is something that has helped me get through everything. Loving as many people as I can helped me to learn to love myself.
What does the word “bravery” mean to you and what does it look like in your everyday life?
I think bravery means doing something that scares you. I also think being brave means standing up for yourself when no one wants to listen.
What role has mentorship played in your life?
One of my teachers from high school has been there for me through everything. She showed me love and kindness when I was going through some really hard things. She is/was also there for me when I found out about what happened to me and was willing to talk with me and pray with me. She may not know everything that I’m feeling or thinking, but she has been a great role model of who I would like to be like when I am older.
What are two things you are loving right now?
I am loving my dog, Bubba – he is my emotional support animal and he has been incredibly helpful when things get tough.
I am also loving the book ‘Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely‘ by Lysa TerKeurst
Where can we find you online?
I am on Instagram at @morganvalleyy, Twitter and Facebook at @valley_morgan.
