So why , then is it now we the "pow family" have chosen to speak?, it is partly, because secrecy thrives in darkness. Light must be shone on the hidden pain felt by so many women within todays Society. the "family" of abuse survivers that speak , within the pages of " Silent Voices Speak" have chosen this time to share their pain , and their history, in the hope , that by becoming more aware, Society , as a whole will "re-think"the way in which women are respected, and to encourage others in similar curcumstances, to realise, there is life after abuse. Self empowerment with support is possible, re-building oneself is possible, self worth is attainable, all of us survivers can lead good productive lives. We of course realise, the fantasic job, agencies such as Womens Aid do, we thank them , from our hearts, Sadly, abuse does not stop, once we leave a abusive situation, the scars can live on for many years. This , then is why we in "POW" are here, to support those who, were still sufferingthe memories of abuse. With this book, we hope to shine a light on domestic abuse , for if darkness encourages secrecy, light encourages truth. It is said that the battle cry of Boudicca, was y gwyr erbyn y Byd-- Truth Against the World.(Sir Peter Robson1966) . So here in truth, Silent Voices Speak. Judith Thomas September 2007