I could die or heal

Linda Maue jokingly says she has a "big mouth." She admits it just may be because she has to speak for so many women who can't speak — because of fear or shame, or because they've taken their life.

Fear and shame aren't strangers to Maue. They've been her companions since a pastor, who was much beloved by her and the congregation he served, sexually abused her. He is no longer an ELCA pastor.

But Maue's story isn't that of a victim. It's one of recovery and healing from abuse. It's a resurrection story — one she's thankful to be alive to tell.