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Elizabeth Smart opens up to People

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Lionheart | 11:11 a.m. June 12, 2008

I believe Mitchell knew exactly what he was doing, too and I cannot understand why he has not be brought to trial. What is going on with the State of Utah courts and processecutors?

To: Elizabeth | 11:21 a.m. June 12, 2008

I look forward to reading your story. You are a very brave young woman for being able to share your story in order help others.

I hope the remaining comments here about you and your family are kind.

Best of luck, from someone who understands, from personal experiences, some of the pain you have endured.

HapEgoLuckE | 11:26 a.m. June 12, 2008

What an amazing young woman! I think a LOT of people can learn from her and I am happy to hear that she is sharing her story, especially about her ability to forgive and her inner strength. I am truly impressed.

Comments continue below

Concerned Reader | 11:41 a.m. June 12, 2008

Thanks for sharing your story. I consider you and your parents very brave people who are trying to do good for our society.

KS Reader | 12:14 p.m. June 12, 2008

I am so happy things have turned out well for you. You are very brave and I prayed for you. You should be very proud of the woman you've become.

Cali Woman | 12:25 p.m. June 12, 2008

Michael has not been brought up to trial, because he has shown he's not mentally stable enough to have one...........the guys a nut case.
I wish I was as strong as Elizabeth. I have gone through some pretty hard times, like we all have...but I have not been as rock solid.
Your an amazing young woman.........

Why? | 12:30 p.m. June 12, 2008

May I ask WHY this story is again in the news?

Yes, we were all thrilled when Elizabeth safely returned -- but it seems she's being manipulated into some sort of media figure. A pamphlet, now a People cover-story?

Re: Why? | 1:09 p.m. June 12, 2008

Because Elizabeth wanted to share her story to help give hope to other victims.

If Elizabeth being a media figure makes you jealous, that's your problem.

You need to ask yourself "Why?" that bothers you.

Cattitude in Utah | 1:14 p.m. June 12, 2008

I think it would be good therapy for Elizabeth to tell her story and if people ask "Why this story is again in the news?" I can say to you, if you don't want to know more about it, than don't read it. What do you care if she writing about what happened.
Maybe somewhere out there is a girl who could use Elizabeths experiance and deal with her own problems.
Maybe it will give someone the strength they need to make to tomorrow.
Why ask Why!
Hurray for Elizabeth! I'm sorry you had to go through this in the first place.
I hope they keep that crazy man locked up forever.
Nobody deserves to go through something like that!

re: Why? | 1:15 p.m. June 12, 2008

I have to agree with "Why?", and why is she still in the news. It's great that she returned safely, but please, you just keep dragging this on longer and trying to make money off it. So what is she going to do next?

reader | 1:26 p.m. June 12, 2008

Reality Racing With Elizabeth And Nick Hogan!
Watch as Hulk Hogan turns green with envy and tries to get into jail to build his street cred!

Stick her out there | 1:28 p.m. June 12, 2008

If Elizabeth wants to be in the public eye for the purpose of helping other children who have been kidnapped, then I say right on. What's wrong with that? It's better and more uplifting than most of the stuff you see on the news these days.

It's not like she's using her time in the spotlight to sell Noni Juice or something.....she's trying to do something nice for other people so give the kid a break!

No therapy? | 1:35 p.m. June 12, 2008

I find it strange that she has not had any therapy... Wasn't she raped by Mitchell? I would think that because of that, therapy would be needed. That's not something that you can just forget.

granny5 | 1:39 p.m. June 12, 2008

Okay, back in the news - 6 years after the real story. Why don't we give as much media attention to those that are still missing? I, for one, will not read any more about her. I am glad that she was returned safely, I am glad that she is getting on with her life - but I still wonder about the ones that are "forgotten" by the press, by their neighbors, by their church, by their country - but not by their family. Pray for them!

re: why? | 1:40 p.m. June 12, 2008

I agree.....this story just won't die.

DMDR | 1:51 p.m. June 12, 2008

Yeah, yeah, she wants to help people. But what a waste of an article if you don't get the good details everyone wants to know.

Enough | 1:56 p.m. June 12, 2008

Untold Story? Told and retold.

SLC gal | 2:01 p.m. June 12, 2008

Stories that could help others are good. If you don't want to read it, don't buy the magazine.

Jealousy | 2:25 p.m. June 12, 2008

The complainers really need to get a life of their own.

Nobody forced you to read this article and nobody is going to force you to read the story in "People."

What I see is a lot of crybabies out there, who've never done anything noteworthy in their lives and who are so driven by jealousy of anybody who has, that all they can do is whine about anyone who they think might be getting more publicity than they (in their jealous little minds) think they deserve.

Elizabeth is a brave, young woman who is doing what she feels is right to help others, probably, in part, as pay back for all of the support that she received when she was going through her own personal hell.

It's sad that some people are so blinded by jealousy, that they can't see that.

idk | 2:26 p.m. June 12, 2008

I agree with everyone. I think it is great that she is telling her story to others, but she should have done that 6 years ago when it first happened. I also think that it is good that she is getting on with her life, but she has been in the news a ton! I agree with the person who said that we should pray for the "forgotten" kids as well they deserve as much attention as Elizabeth is getting. I have to say honestly she is getting more attention than anyone else who was ever found. Others deserve a chance to tell their stories as well. They might have gone through something similar or even worse...you never know until you ask them about their story. That is just my opinion and you don't have to agree with me if you don't want to.

mike | 2:33 p.m. June 12, 2008

my question is were ed every time there a opertunity for elizabeth to shine ed sure steals the spot light

Wendy | 2:39 p.m. June 12, 2008

I remember worrying and praying for Elizabeth Smart. I was so happy when she was found. It is nice to hear her talk about her ordeal! Wow what a well adjusted person. So many valuable lessons about forgetting and forgiving. What a wonderful girl! I would love to buy a book from her someday, not about her ordeal especially but just her thoughts on life.

bartonjabber | 2:52 p.m. June 12, 2008

I think I read the most acidic comments in the Deseret News comment sections. I feel sorry that for so many of you it is all about judging and degrading others.
I applaud those who are supportive. I just feel sorry that there are so many who are downright right mean.

Dog | 3:19 p.m. June 12, 2008

"You go girl!"

Amazing.... | 3:29 p.m. June 12, 2008

to me as to the influence of Mitchell on her, because from what I recalled reading from the media after she was found, that she could have screamed to alert other people of who she was, during one of the parties that all three of them were attending at one time in the Salt Lake Valley. We cannot pre-judged until we've walked in her shoes.

I'm glad she is doing so well and I look forward to reading the story in People's Magazine

Jealous? Of WHAT? | 3:38 p.m. June 12, 2008

I think we "Why?" people are thinking more of Elizabeth, than those who want to feed off of her misfortune. There's no "getting on with your life" until you've put the past behind you. Ms Smart is a talented and intelligent girl who can have a life BEYOND what happened to her six years ago...if others will let her.

GET IT NOW?

I, for one, have no reason to be jealous...and I can assure you that when I saved a life almost exactly ten years ago today, there was no publicity.
(My choice.)

Elizabeth who? | 3:43 p.m. June 12, 2008

She was, literally, one of thousands that get kidnapped every year and we still need to hear about it? Ed Smart sure is living up to his namesake, he is milking this for all its worth. People Magazine? Its a hack rag barely above the Enquirer and the Sun so this does nothing but further the opinion that (obviously) a number of people hold: This is about $ and not about helping people and no one can convince me otherwise. If this was about helping people then she would have set up a non-profit to raise money and awareness. Then she would spend her time (and her own dime) talking to people about whatever it is she espouses. Selling your story to a trash rag means nothing but profit, pure and simple.

to untold story | 3:44 p.m. June 12, 2008

you hit it right on the head! i agree totally!

Re: idk | 3:44 p.m. June 12, 2008

"I think it is great that she is telling her story to others, but she should have done that 6 years ago when it first happened."

Try using the thinking half of your brain.

Six years ago Elizabeth was still a young girl and was just starting to put her own life back together after a terrible ordeal.

Now that she's matured and has had time to recover from an experience more frightening than most people here could even imagine, she feels she's ready to do what she can to help other victims recover.

Anyone who feels compelled to complain about what Elizabeth is doing, really must have serious issues of their own that they haven't dealt with.

For your sake, get some help.

Re: Of WHAT? | 3:56 p.m. June 12, 2008

Obviously, you are.

Whoever told you that in order to get on with life you have to forget the past... was wrong.

It sounds like you're now regretting not taking advantage of your chance to get a little lime light.

Nobody is forcing Elizabeth to share her story. It was her choice. Just as it was your choice not to share your story.

Did you ever think that by not sharing your story, you prevented others from gaining the insight and possibly inspiration that your story could have given?

awesomeron | 4:11 p.m. June 12, 2008

I have always liked her and her dad, she was a total victim. I have some huge issues with what went on between Capture and Dumb Luck Rescue. However Brain Washing is a powerful thing, as is fear. I had hoped she would play her Harp and go on to lead a normal life. Temple Marriage, Worthy Returned Missionary Husband etc. With out to much baggage so as not to spoil the fun. However the Route she has chosen is also okay, I just hope it was her choice, and she does not become a professional Victim. I am sure it has not been easy for her either way. As long as the Nut Job that adducted and hurt her and his female friend are in Jail, I see No Reason To Bring Them Too Trial.

Elizabeth.... | 4:27 p.m. June 12, 2008

Just an advise from a friend. People will say whatever they want about you and the incident. Don't let it get to you. Move on with your life and remember who you are, that you are a Beloved Daughter of God. Stay positive and don't give in to worldly influences.

With this new exposure through People's Magazine, I can see other ideas from other trendy publishers, lurking somewhere in the horizon. You are a bright and beautiful girl, please don't give in to worldly temptations. Luv ya lots...

Lacee | 4:27 p.m. June 12, 2008

Vail she was forced to wear a mask over her face at ONE party she got dragged to(at midnight)by her kidnappers. How can you say she looked like she was having fun? You couldn't see her face except for her eyes. She didn't look like she was having any fun. She looked more like she was sleep-deprived. Stockholm Syndrome & fear are what kept her from crying out & escaping. She did try to escape a few times but Mitchell always caught her & threatened to kill her & her family. She submitted in order to survive & stay sane. How can anyone fault her for that? Anything you do to survive a dangerous situation is the right thing to do. That's not only common knowledge, that's common sense. & as for those stupid baby rumors that people keep spreading around the Internet, why would she need to run away with 2 psychotic strangers? You think they delivered the kid in the hills with no medical training? Have you heard of abortion? Or sending her to a home for unwed mothers? A runaway would have gotten dressed & packed a bag before leaving.& PEOPLE magazine is NOT a trash rag.

Anonymous | 4:27 p.m. June 12, 2008

I wonder how much money the family has made from this. How could the 2 idiots accused of kidnapping her do it alone as crazy as they are. How did they know her?

So happy for Elizabeth | 4:38 p.m. June 12, 2008

It's so wonderful to have a success story like Elizabeths. She is an inspiration and her life lets us all know that we can pick up after anything that happens and decide who we will be. My daughter knows Elizabeth from BYU. Elizabeth is for real. She is not faking a thing and she leads a great life. She has alot to offer in terms of strength and a very positive attitude. When all is said and done, she is a winner.

To the "Why's" | 4:51 p.m. June 12, 2008

Many people who have gone through a traumatic event in their life dedicate their lives to working with and/or helping others who have gone through similar events. (Rape victims, drug/alcohol recovered addicts, etc.) I don't see this as abnormal, nor do I understand why people are so upset about it. If it were me, I wouldn't want anyone to know what happened to me. I would feel ashamed (even though it would not have been anything I could help). But she has learned to get past that and put those feelings behind her to help others. I commend her for being brave and coming forward to help others. Congratulations Elizabeth. Keep up the great work!

amazed! | 5:03 p.m. June 12, 2008

I can't believe how judgmental people can be and how they make all kinds of assumptions wiwthout knowing anything.

She was 14 years old when she was captured. That would make her 15, at the most, when she was rescued. Yet several of you are blaaming her because she didn't come out with everything then! She was a child, and a severely traumatized one at that! Now she is an adult and has had a chance to heal and gain poise and maturity. I think that it is great that she wants to help others now that she feels able to do so.

Cut out all the catty remarks about making money from it! Can anyone show even the slitest bit of REAL evidence that either she or her father will personally gain anything financial from it? Instead, one poster seemed upset about not getting enough "juicy" details. It is some of the posters who now need to grow up!

Actually, I think that she has kept a pretty low profile for six years. That gave her time to heal and become stronger.

DMDR and the other insensitives | 5:04 p.m. June 12, 2008

Get a life people. Go read something else. If complaining is your style...well...there are other forums who would love to hear from you I am sure.

As we know, everyone has an opinion.

Elizabeth is very smart...and is wis...and is compassionate and forgiving.

I think it is great to have a strong woman telling her story. It is always needed...always...there are those hurting now whom she could no doubt help...and maybe those who were hurting months, or maybe years ago, may be able to benefit from her article.

It's obvious that many of the unfeeling (like DMDR and all of you other complainers...yeah you know who you are...) people here couldn't be of help if they wanted to because they are only thinking of themselves...very selfish...

As Elizabeth says...she doesn't have time to let things get to her...and those of you who have let this get to you that she is out here again trying to help...get over your selfish selves and be glad that she had come back stronger than ever to help her fellow man.

Just goes to show you | 5:46 p.m. June 12, 2008

This proves that there are a lot more volunteers than victims in the world. Bad things happen, but some refuse to remain a victim! You are an inspiration to many who draw strengh from you! God Bless!

Costner | 5:52 p.m. June 12, 2008

Glad to hear Elizabeth is going to tell her story - again? Many good wishes to her - hope & pray she will truly recover from this mess that happened to her in her young life. But, can't help but wonder how much money her family (father & uncle - the photographer?) getting from this?? Is she being 'pushed' into this story? hope not. Let it be true & humble. Good for you Elizabeth - hope all will be well for the rest of your life. As people have said before - if you're tired of the story up to now - don't read this one! No one is forcing you to do it. Good thoughts are wish her -and, let it stop here.

Stay out of the spotlight | 6:13 p.m. June 12, 2008

I think that Elizebeth should really stay out of the spotlight. I think her family should protect her. When tragic things happen, to constantly go over and relive events really is not good therapy. It is okay to close the door on this tragedy. We all know about it, what happened and are very grateful for her safe return. I was shocked when she was at the white house meeting Pres. Bush soon after she came home. If I had a child that went through what she did I would do everything I could to make sure they were protected and OUT of the public eye.

Anonymous | 7:42 p.m. June 12, 2008

I prayed for Elizabeth too...being a victim myself, I know it is easy to push what happened into the background until your 30's and then it all comes back and is very difficult to deal with. I hope she has found a way to tap into the atonement...it's really the only answer for healing. I suppose counseling would be helpful in a lot of cases.

to the Whys? | 8:00 p.m. June 12, 2008

Funny that you do read the article and find the time to comment when really you want nothing to do with it. Sounds a bit untrue to yourself, doesn't it? Something must interest you or you wouldn't be going through so much trouble to participate.

I for one think it is great that she telling more about herself. She was a child when she was kidnapped, she now is an adult and it will be interesting to hear about her "growing up" from the experience she had.

They are not called "Smart" for nothing, they have helped with every search for missing children and given advise when they couldn't be on hand to help. They had one of the most organized searches ever in the United States. Just a "smart" family!! and I for one enjoy listening to them, educated, well spoken, I like it.

David in CA | 8:18 p.m. June 12, 2008

I did not get a chance to read all the comments before my computer time was close to its limit for today. I'm not sure what everyone else said.

I want to say Congratulations to Elizabeth for pulling through and keeping her head on straight.

James E. Faust, in his last General Conference
address before leaving this Earth life, talked about the Value of Truly Forgiving. Looks like Elizabeth is putting this concept into effect in her response and attitude to what happened to her. She's actually
"acting", rather than "re-acting".

Forgiveness is a "Godly" trait and when people can forgive, they truly are FREED from the enslavement
of hatred and "getting back". Mortal life is so short and it IS a wise decision not to hold grudges and all other kinds of BAD FEELINGS for a long time. It's really good therapy to let loose those "human" feelings and tendencies to want to
"settle the score".

Jesus taught us to forgive. He and God, the Father, set the example of Forgiving and Moving on.

God Bless you Elizabeth. I had you in my prayers too.

From So. California | 8:35 p.m. June 12, 2008

Great to hear about Elizabeth 6 years later. How nice that she is willing to do an interview.

Some in Utah may not be interested but the rest of us in the USA are interested. Thank you

Anonymous | 8:58 p.m. June 12, 2008

I so agree with her when she said what's the point about talking with a therapist. "If I need to talk to somebody, I have my family". Therapist won't erase any memory. Therapist will tell you what any loving wise mother or father will tell you: get the best of the experience and move on. That's what she is doing. I praised her for that. No dedicating one more minute to the experience and instead, helping others to know they can survive the trauma is something we should commanded her for doing that.

Good for her. She took the best part.

Remembering 2002 | 10:21 p.m. June 12, 2008

Elizabeth, my family members were just a few of countless people praying for you and your family in 2002. The last coherent thing my grandmother said in the hospital before she died on June 9th of that year was, "Have they found Elizabeth Smart yet?" Thank you for being willing to share your story...I think the most beautiful thing I've heard in a long time is about your willingness to forgive your captors, not because they didn't deserve your hate and anger, but because you realized how it would continue to eat away at you if you didn't forgive and move on. That's a powerful message to those of us holding on to lesser grudges. Thanks for your Christ-like example!

I prayed for Elizabeth | 10:37 p.m. June 12, 2008

As one who prayed for Elizabeth Smart, I am delighted to have an update! She has taken an incredible risk to share her story in hopes of giving courage to others who face unthinkable challenges. Unlike our Presidential candidates (who recognize that their lives will be critiqued by people who think watching the news means they know the real story), Elizabeth did not choose her fame. She deserves our highest regard, and if not that, at least our acknowledgment that our opinions simply don't matter. We are an audience only. I prefer to be in the cheering section. You go girl!

Amazing | 11:04 p.m. June 12, 2008

I know someone who worked with Smart and said despite everything Elizabeth has gone thru she is an incredible person, very thoughtful and kind to co-workers.

Jealous Greedy Types | 11:50 p.m. June 12, 2008

For you people who somehow think that it's any of your business how much money Elizabeth is making from sharing her story, get a life.

I'm sure "People" paid her something for her story, but, it really is absolutely none of your business how much she got or whether that was part of her motivation for doing the story.

If she says that she's telling her story to help other victims, who are you to question that?

Just because you've never done anything in your life without worrying about what was in it for you personally, doesn't mean that there aren't truly good people in this world who do things purely out of charity.

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