Growing up in a small town was enjoyable. It felt like one big coal-mining family, where everyone knew each other's business and was always willing to help when needed. There was a sense of mutual respect among the townspeople. As a result, if someone needed to leave their child with a family member, neighbor, or friend, they didn't have to worry about their safety.

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It was common for clergy members, like bishops and elders, to stay with church members during visits, and they were usually treated with great respect. Unfortunately, some were very evil. The community held an annual tent revival, with Elder Doe leading the service. My parents hosted him while he was in town, but it soon came to light that he was a pedophile. Knowing he was in our house made me feel sick. I was overwhelmed with anxiety and fear, and my only way to cope was to remain silent. As a child, it was normal to listen quietly while adults spoke, so being silent came easily to me.

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A  silent child is ... one in need of a listener and not a judge.

 

As a woman, wife, and mother, I am determined to protect my children from the dangers they face in the world. My personal experiences, coupled with the rising instances of trafficking in my community, drive my mission to inform the public about the serious threats posed by pedophilia and human trafficking. To fulfill this mission, I have chosen to write a book. I understand that this journey will be challenging and that it entails confronting painful memories as I delve into one of the most notorious criminal activities in the United States. I am prepared to face these challenges head-on and bring awareness to this critical issue.

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On a rainy afternoon, I found myself deeply engaged in reading and research, grappling with feelings of restlessness and frustration. I was searching for a captivating title with a strong hook. As the Rain began to fall, it was gentle—a soft mist rather than a heavy downpour. When the droplets occasionally touched my face and arms, I started to feel a sense of calm wash over me. This change in atmosphere sparked an idea: to explore how Rain influences a person's emotions, especially during challenging times. I realized that while this might not directly relate to the theme of a book on human trafficking, my curiosity had ignited an essential exploration of the subject. It prompted me to investigate the connections between weather and emotions, drawing inspiration from what other writers have expressed about Rain. This insightful approach not only refined my focus but also deepened my understanding of the topic. 

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What is the significance of Rain? What does it symbolize when you dream about Rain? Research indicates that Rain can act as a soothing presence during stressful periods. It nurtures life and can serve as a mental escape during challenging times. This idea is explored in Neil Jonathan's work, "Rain as a Blessing." Inspired by this concept, "Yazzmin Danced in the Rain" was born. 

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​​Yazzmin Danced in the Rain 

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​​​​​"Yazzmin is a playful, lighthearted, and academically gifted twelve-year-old enjoying a fulfilling life with her parents and siblings in Baja, California. She is a spunky, upbeat, and loyal friend to Zoe, who lives just across the street. Together, they love playing in the Rain. Everything in Yazzmin's life seems perfect; she skips and runs down the stairs while joyfully singing, "Today is my birthday! I'm going to be a teenager Today!" However, unbeknownst to Yazzmin, she is a victim of human trafficking. On her special day, her life will take a dark turn, as she will face the unimaginable choice of having to kill someone to escape.

 

Thirty-six years later, Yazzmin shares her story of survival, detailing how she broke free from the grips of human trafficking and found solace in dancing in the Rain.

 

​My vision for "Yazzmin Danced in the Rain" is to raise awareness in communities and families about the very real dangers of human trafficking.