We all gave Andie a hard time back in 2003 when she was the resident expert on the Elizabeth Smart kidnapping. Andie kept current on every detail. I think Andie felt an eerie connection because at age 14, the picture on the "Elizabeth Smart Missing" flyers had an uncanny resemblance to Paige.My apologizes to Andie for teasing her about her obsession 7 years ago because last week I became fascinated reading transcripts from the ongoing trial for Brian David Mitchell, Smith's abductor.
Reading Elizabeth Smart's testimony in the court proceedings it's astonishing to learn of the horrendous things this young innocent 8th grade girl had to endure. The evil and manipulation of this man/monster is appalling.
The whole account is deeply troubling but equally inspiring. It is nothing short of a miracle to see the grace and class shown by Elizabeth Smart. Many victims who live through traumas of abuse never recover. And Elizabeth endured the nightmare for 9 months. No one would be surprised if it messed with her psyche, and yet, Elizabeth Smart testifies with courage, poise, and dignity. Her tenacity is quite amazing!
I'm so impressed at the resiliency of spirit Elizabeth portrays. Her stable mental health seems to be the direct result of wise parenting, supportive extended family, great counseling, and strong faith. It's unfortunate that all "victims" don't have wonderful support systems in place to help recovery. But, it's also reassuring to see that someone who is surrounded by people who love them can get through really difficult things. And even thrive!
One journalist described Elizabeth Smart as no longer a "victim" but an "activist." It seems she has transformed from "Elizabeth Smart, kidnapped teenage survivor" to "Elizabeth Smart, articulate student, missionary, leader, example of hope!" A happy ending!
