The Boys Scouts of American have been defending themselves these past few weeks in a sex abuse case. This case could change the way the scouting organization conducts business. Many people are not very happy to see the scouts get this negative publicity.I wonder if a jury verdict in favor of the victim will make things better? I have been asking myself that question since the trial began. How will this case impact the life of this victim and the lives of other victims of childhood sex abuse.
So tomorrow the closing arguments will begin. The jury will then be faced with a decision that will impact all parties involved. No matter what the jury decides to do the public will be wiser from this case. The scouts could use this as an opportunity to tare down the walls of concealment so they can rebuild with honor.
A verdict in favor of the plaintiff will not give him back the years he lost because of the sexual abuse he endured but it will be a victory. He will have faced his abuser, faced the people who did not protect him, he will have stood proud in the courtroom and faced the scrutiny of the public. This victim has taken his fear and turned it into courage. No matter what the jury does in the court this week this victim is a survivor. He is a hero.
I hope his story is a beacon for others, giving them courage to come forward.
