A little over 21 years ago, Elizabeth Smart would have never guessed where she’d be today. That’s because in June 2002, the then 14-year-old was abducted from her own home. She and her 9-year-old sister were laying in bed when Brian David Mitchell held a knife to her throat. To keep her family safe, she stayed quiet. Although her sister succeeded at pretending to be asleep, Elizabeth was taken.
The next nine months were absolute torture for Elizabeth. She endured abuse of all kinds. It’s no wonder, then, that she thought her future had been taken from her. But on March 12, 2003, a miracle happened: She was rescued. Now, 21 years later, Elizabeth has taken time to share what this anniversary means to her after all these years.
@elizabeth_smart_official Today is the 21st anniversary of being rescued. My life is far from perfect but I’m so happy and grateful for the life I have today. #elizabethsmart #survivor #anniversary #rescue ♬ original sound – Elizabeth Smart Official
“I know anniversaries mean a lot of different things for different people, and I respect whatever it means to everyone individually, but for me, it really is a reminder that life is good and that dreams really do come true and that we should never ever give up,” Elizabeth shares in the video above.
There’s no doubt that this mindset is what drives Elizabeth to use her voice to help others. In fact, that’s why she created the Elizabeth Smart Foundation. According to their website, their goal is to end the victimization and exploitation of sexual assault. They do this through advocacy, education, and healing.
Elizabeth Smart Shares Insightful Words on 21st Anniversary of Her Rescue
“When I was kidnapped I thought I’d never finish school, go to college, fall in love, get married, or have a family,” Elizabeth shares on Instagram. “I thought every dream I had for myself was stolen.”
In sharing her story with the world, Elizabeth shines a light on those just like her who also need life-saving help. She also serves as a reminder that we never know where life will take us.
“I know each of us has a story and we all have our dark days in life, but I hope whoever reads this finds themselves believing in miracles, dreams coming true, and hope for a better future,” she writes.
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
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