About Ingrid Phillip

Who is Ingrid Jane Phillip? Born on the island of St. Lucia to Marie E. Phillip, the whereabouts of my biological father named Henry (or David?). Despite my unpleasant upbringing, I still recall many fun days, as a little girl, listening to music and taking pictures of myself.

Running her three restaurants demanded that my mother traveled a lot, leaving my six brothers and I at home by ourselves most of the time. I’m not exactly sure when it all started, but I was definitely between 8 and 12 years old when I was sexually abused by the same people who were supposed to take care of me–my family.

My mother’s accusations of impropriety and the beatings I received, on her return home, worsened the situation. Her actions validated my abusers’ claim that no one would ever believe me. So I never spoke up about what was happening and had to deal with the pain, shame, and low self-esteem that resulted from years of molestation, all alone.

My self-worth bottomed out as I believed Satan’s lie that, if my family could hurt me, then I’d have no luck getting love from strangers. Before long, I expected and allowed people to take advantage of me in every way imaginable; I didn’t treat myself any better either; I hated myself,

I was finally physically free from my abusers at age 17 but the emotional scars remained–I felt hopeless, like a lost cause. I moved in with my father who also traveled a lot and it was in music that I once more found comfort and company. Songs like “When I’m back on my Feet Again” by Michael Bolton and “Release Me” by Wilson Phillips were particularly helpful. I felt empowered and a while later, when I noticed a member of my family trying to abuse someone else, I spoke up for the first time. Although I was put out and homeless, at age 20, God was instilling the strength and voice I would need to one day advocate for others with similar experiences.

When I turned 22, overwhelmed with the pain that threatened to envelop me, I broke down and opened up to my mother about the sexual abuse I had endured at the hands of my family. When she confronted the first one, his response made me sick to my stomach–I could have killed him!

But God continued to lead me down a path of healing and I had a son - the joy of my life, at 25. In 1998, I moved to the United States, and the next year, a day after my birthday, I accepted Jesus into my heart. My faith walk has become easier over the years, but the key is trusting in God to do exceptional things in my life.

Looking back now, I smile at the thought of the very special people God has placed in my life to show me genuine love; people with whom I can share my innermost feelings. I especially rejoice over the people with whom I have been able to share God’s redeeming love. My life experience has taught me to not just see homeless men and women, prostitutes, addicts or alcoholics, but precious souls who are hurting and in need of God’s care. I ask myself, “What led to their current lifestyle and how can I help them think outside of it?”

That’s why I started an online ministry dedicated to telling the world about the Lord and setting them free from Satan’s traps and lies. I thank God for giving me the wisdom and courage to move beyond my insecurities and share my story with others. Please agree with me in prayer for the Lord’s continued guidance and my continued obedience in sharing my journey with whom and when He prompts me to.

P.S. I have forgiven everyone responsible for my abuse and I feel so much better. My ability to express my love to them is a testament to God’s undeniable grace and ability to heal wounded hearts.
Female
United States