This first essay began life as a poem. Several years ago, I was approached by the editor of Timbrel magazine, who was preparing an issue on sexual assault. She asked me to write the piece that would open the issue, set the theme and establish the tone. I took the poem and re-cast it as an essay. This is the draft as it was first submitted; the final published version was edited somewhat for length. I also include the photo on which the essay is based.
Originally presented as a speech at a Toastmasters meeting “Every Life Has a Purpose” won honorable mention at a juried art fair.
Ann Graham Price 
Loved this, Ann. Beautiful writing; clear in message; and, I really like the questions at the end.
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