Bermudian releases ‘brave’ memoir of molestation

Another authentic Bermudian voice has emerged through literature. Bermudian author Rosita L. Davis recently published her first book: a brave memoir entitled “Do You Know Who You Are Sitting Next To?”

This book chronicles her personal journey from a victim of molestation to an adult learning to heal the scars that were left from her abuse. Her story is one of faith and the triumph of the human spirit. All too often in Bermuda the topic of child molestation is swept under the rug with victims carrying this pain with them into adulthood, often living troubled lives having never healed their wounds.

However, through the pages of her book, Ms. Davis opens up about her abuse as a child and how this impacted her life even into adulthood. She says “I wrote this book to help others who are struggling with the same things I struggle with, while offering encouraging words to help them get through their own journey.”

As a Christian woman, she is bravely stepping out on faith and sharing this glimpse into her life’s journey. Ms. Davis believes, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). My journey has not been an easy one. But I want people to know that they can get through whatever scars they may carry with them. It just takes strength and courage. Telling your truth and sharing your story can help others heal. My faith in God has been my strength and allowed me to find the courage to write this very personal book so that others can somehow also recognize their own strength and have the courage to heal.”

Local charity SCARS (Saving Children And Revealing Secrets), whose mission is to reduce the risk of child sexual abuse in Bermuda, has offered Ms. Davis, one of their SCARS facilitators, their encouragement and support for publishing her book. Debi Ray-Rivers, Founder & Executive Director and Helen Ponte, Director of Programs & Operations for SCARS encourages adult victims of sexual abuse like Ms. Davis to never be afraid to share their story as it could validate, support, help and heal others and themselves.

Ms. Davis will be available at the following locations for book signings:

• Bermuda Adult Library (Queen Street, Hamilton), Friday June 27th, 11am-2pm

• Caesar’s Pharmacy (Somerset Road, Sandys), Saturday June 28th , 4pm-6pm

The book will be available for sale at Caesar’s Pharmacy for $25. In addition, if you are interested in copies of the book, please email [email protected].