Confrontation and forgiveness can be two of the most difficult things to do when you've been terribly hurt by someone, but if you feel that they might be healing for you, they can be powerful tools. Jessica Simpson has opened up about the topic in a new interview on The Gift Of Forgiveness podcast.
TW: this article contains depictions or discussions of child sexual abuse and may be triggering to some readers.
Literally! Earlier this year, Jessica released her memoir Open Book that detailed much of her life, both in the spotlight and beforehand. One of the most emotional subjects she covered was the abuse that she suffered at the age of 5 or 6 until she was 12, by a young girl who was only a year older than her.
Jessica has opened up about why she confronted her abuser in a new interview.
"I left it unsaid for far too long," she added. "I went to her and I just said, 'I know you know what was going on and I know that you were being abused,' because she was being abused by an older guy."
"I just want you to know that I forgive you," Jessica said that she told her abuser, "and I don't really care to be around you that much ever again, but I do want you to know that I know what happened between us and I'm not gonna live in denial about it."
Jessica also sent her a copy of her book when it came out and said that she hoped "it brings healing" to her.
That must've taken a lot of courage and strength from Jessica, and we're so proud of her for taking that step!
