The Whisper: Plus, A Guide to Living Free : 28 practical steps to overcoming sexual abuse

Domestic violence, sexual abuse, incest… they are all of a single stamp, and those who experience it are scarred for life. Healing is possible, but honesty must come first. The truth must come out, and then the lives affected by it can be reconstructed into healthier, happier experiences. Don't let your abuser keep the upper hand in your life. You are never alone. And help is here… right here… in these pages.

Shirley Jo Peterson was born in western New York State, the third of seven children born to a minister and his wife. She was raised in various parts of the Midwest and Florida, while moving from church to church with her parents and six siblings.She finished her informal education in Plainwell, Michigan and went on to study nursing in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She married her high school sweetheart, Jim Petersen, a banker. They proudly claim three daughters and one foster daughter. They are also grandparents to two grandsons, one foster granddaughter, and one foster grandson.She is a self-taught musician and the creator of Happy Hearts Music Company. She plays the keyboard, has produced 12 CDs, and has written over 200 compositions. Her web business allows her to sell her soothing music around the world. She frequently plays at weddings, conferences, community, and church functions. The combination of her informal talks, music, and audience participation makes her programs welcomed.Her nursing career has provided her with many different work opportunities. She is presently a public health nurse, working at women’s health clinics in northern Michigan. She also volunteers as the parish nurse at her church. She is a member of the Hospice Advisory Board in Cadillac and donates her music to hospice patients.Her interests include traveling, music, poetry, garage sales, and her overall enjoyment of being with her family and close friends.Her faith is that of a Christian, which she gladly shares with anyone who has an interest.For the past 30 years, her “home sweet home” has been in Cadillac, Michigan.