Covered in cold gloop and straw in my nose for air, I can't speak or move in case the silicone doesn't set. I lay holding my pose, excited to see how it would turn out. I go to talk, but remember, I can't. This silencing conjured up feelings. I recall the shame I felt from being abused, believing, on some level, it was my fault. And despite sharing with others my experiences, my voice was discounted and silenced.

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My body, however, could not be silenced. It was not just the depression but the crippling stomach pains, the spells of time missing, and the headaches experienced, among many other symptoms. My body was screaming. I used to think that dissociations, anxiety, self-harm, random pains or numbness were weaknesses. I have come to acknowledge, however, my body was in fact, doing what it should. It helped me survive. It is incredible.

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Now, I welcome the discomfort my body communicates to me. I know it is trying to tell me something important. Your responses are not wrong. This sculpture symbolises my stand against abuse and acknowledgment that no matter how hard others may try to silence me. I will ALWAYS find a way to speak.