Deseret News | Elizabeth Smart opens up to People

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Elizabeth Smart opens up to People

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Lindsay | 10:49 a.m. June 13, 2008

Elizabeth is such an inspiration to me! I look up to her a lot. I remember the day so vividly when I was at work, and the news was on and they had just announced that Elizabeth Smart had been found. Everyone in the office was overjoyed, as I'm sure the whole nation. I admire her attitude so much--what an great example to everyone of forgiving your fellow men.

Judy Mills | 10:49 a.m. June 13, 2008

I watched your story from the beginning and mourned with your family. When you were found safe I rejoiced with them and you. I am very proud of the strength you showed. I know Heavenly Father was with you throughout your ordeal and you being able to forgive is what has brought you through it all and back to a rock solid existence. Thank you Elizabeth and family for showing the world what forgiveness and kindness is all about.

C. Wilson | 11:09 a.m. June 13, 2008

Many years ago we had a family member murdered in Taylorsville, /UT. Our niece lost her father and her mother remains in the Mental facility in Provo, incompetant to stand trial. She too has forgiven and recovered and chosen to help children who have suffered traumtic situations in their lives. Elizabeth can be such an inspiration to other victims as is our niece. Helping others helps the victim to heal and so does telling the story. Elizabeth is healing in all the right ways. God bless her.

Comments continue below

Linda Miller | 11:23 a.m. June 13, 2008

Elizabeth, you are a radient, shining example of pure womanhood and your ability to forgive and move on is wisdom far beyond your young age. You look like an angel and are to be commended for the way you have put this experience behind you. You have taken from it only wisdom and maturity and the ability to appreciate the needs and concerns of others. I commend you for your bravery and your service and your example to us all. You deserve the very best life has to offer. Thank you for all that you are.

Penny | 11:33 a.m. June 13, 2008

In response to someone who said therepy is needed: Someone who does not have a strong family support group and a strong belief on God may need that kind of help. I had family that saught therapy and in my opinion it did more damage than good. Here strong inner self and as she has said many times, her spiritual beliefs and family support is sometimes more therapy than anything that a doctor could provide. Nothing againest therapists. There probably are some that can help. But let the strong woman that she is, tell her story (without the details!) and give some strength to those who are needing it too. That's the best therapy some can receive! Help from someone who has gone through it and survived!

dangerous advice from amateurs | 11:39 a.m. June 13, 2008

I am concerned that the Smarts continue to say they want to help but advise that there is no need for therapy- that's ridiculous. TO the reader who thinks that "any wise mother or father" can replace a professional therapist, you clearly have never had any trauma in your life. I pray that victims who read the Smart story are not influenced to blow off therapy. If your leg was broken, you'd go to a doctor, or it would heal incorrectly and continue to cause you pain and inhibit your ability to progress physically..same with our emotions.

The Value of Therapy | 11:40 a.m. June 13, 2008

About therapy, If she hasn't had true therapy with a professional who has had years of education, training, and experience, I predict she will eventually need it, or else she'll eventually suffer (internally or externally) in ways that could have been prevented through proper therapy early on.

You just can't "not talk about things" that deep and traumatic, and not have it surface later on.

Having a strong, supportive family always helps tremendously, but professional therapy for a traumatic event THIS EXTREME is invaluable. Otherwise it would be like trying to treat cancer with your family's home remedies, rather than with professional medical methods.

Re: To awesomeron | 12:04 p.m. June 13, 2008

"Mitchell, the man who abducted and held Smart captive, cannot be held in jail indefinitely without being brought to trial and found guilty."

I assume that's simply your own opinion.

John Hinckley attempted to assassinate President Ronald Reagan in 1981. At his trial he was found not guilty by reason of insanity on June 21, 1982. He has remained under institutional psychiatric care since then. Not guilty, but still in custody.

As a result of the verdict, the U.S. Congress and a number of states rewrote the law regarding the insanity defense. Idaho, Kansas, Montana, and Utah have abolished the defense altogether.

In my opinion, Brian David Mitchell will not be released until he's been tried and found innocent of the charges. He won't be tried until he's found competent to stand trial. It's extremely unlikely that Mitchell or his wife, Wanda Barzee, will ever see the light of day outside a mental institution or prison cell.

For Elizabeth's sake, I pray that they will never be released.

Have some respect | 12:24 p.m. June 13, 2008

Many of you have said some rude things to some of the comments. It is rude to put others opinions down. Everyone has the right to say what they feel without being critized!!!

To Value of Therapy | 12:26 p.m. June 13, 2008

Where did you go to school to get your professional thearapist degree? Oh you don't have one. Then where do you get off saying that she needs to go to therapy. Plus you can NOT compare what she went through to cancer. They are two totally different things. She will not die if she dosn't go to therapy were as with cancer you will.

Re: Respect | 12:52 p.m. June 13, 2008

"Everyone has the right to say what they feel..."

Let's just leave it at that. If you're posting on a public forum, other people have a right to criticize your posts.

Civility, unfortunately, is not a requirement for posting.

Nevada | 1:05 p.m. June 13, 2008

Elizabeth,

You are a beautiful, delightful young lady. The trials you have endured seem to have made you stronger, and you will continue to inspire and encourage so many.

Go Girl! | 1:13 p.m. June 13, 2008

I'll read about her any day compared to having Brittney Spears and Anna Nichol shoved down my throat not to mention OJ Simpson. Who cares about the money if she makes it, look at those who I just mentioned, they are/were loaded with it and they were there because of their money and bad behavior.

This girl and her family will be in the spotlight because of what happened, and fortunately for them they are turning it into a positive. I would much rather hear a good story than a bad one.

Wonder Why | 1:19 p.m. June 13, 2008

Why is the Smart family giving so much information about Elizabeth's life six yrs later? Where she's attending school, what she's majoring in, what she does in her spare time (plays the harp). I think they should keep a low profile. What will be next? A book? A movie? The people that really love and care about her know exactly how she's doing. There's no need for tabloid exposure. It doesn't look good!!

phyllis | 1:19 p.m. June 13, 2008

I am really surprised at some of the comments made here. I've never been in this young ladies position but I do know that anything is possible with the Lord on your side. It seems she has found strenght in her faith and the ability to forgive has given her freedom and I believe that is a great thing to share with others and it could help someone else to find courage through Christ. Just because someone may not understand does not mean that she is not sincere in what she is doing. We all have a tendency to judge what we don't understand.

Dangerous advice | 1:27 p.m. June 13, 2008

to the folks who think you can't die from emotional trauma, or PTSD, "it's not cancer"- think again. Look at the statistics on war vets, surrvivors of emotional /sexual /physical abuse and suicide or self- destructive behavior. I have all the advantages of good family, education, opportunities, and rock-solid belief in the Savior, but without therapy along with these things I would never have beat those PTSD statistics.

Move On....REALLY, Move On | 1:37 p.m. June 13, 2008

The point is not the goodness of the Smart family. The point is that it's time to go away and go on with your life. Quit dredging this up over and over.

Re: Wonder Why??? | 1:44 p.m. June 13, 2008

The DN article about the People story contains your answer "Why?" Elizabeth is telling her story.

As they used to say in grade school book reports, if you want to know the rest of the story, you'll have to read the book (or in this case, the DN article accompanying this blog.

JoAnn | 1:48 p.m. June 13, 2008

To those of you who think that Elizabeth Smart is making money off this: National magazines like People do not pay for stories! (I also posted a similar comment on the other Smart story.) They would lose all credibility. It's my belief that she told her story because she wants to help others to overcome similar hardships. Thank you, Elizabeth!

Graylady | 2:02 p.m. June 13, 2008

I am happy that Elizabeth is telling her story. Maybe it has taken her this long to be able to share it with others. My daughter was molested by a person. It has been many years and she has moved on with her life, but it still comes to her once in awhile. You can move on, but those memories still remain down deep somewhere.

The Value of Therapy | 2:07 p.m. June 13, 2008

Quoting a previous poster, I also hope that victims who read the story won't be "influenced to blow off therapy." We've heard too many tragic news stories of people who have. That was my main reason for posting.

To the poster who would challenge my education, I do have professional degrees in Psychology from BYU. There are countless cases of people who have experienced a wide range of emotional and physical consequences (some tragic), after traumatic insults. Professional therapy reduces the chances of this happening, and at least the severity of the consequences.

Maybe her future will be fine. But if there's something that can increase your chances of getting through life without the trauma surfacing in a difficult way later on, it's a smart thing to take it. Ultimately, it's their choice.

The cancer analogy was obviously just to illustrate that in "extreme cases," often it's better to consult with a professional who has the education, background, and trained skills, than to try to solve the problem on your own.

We all want the best for Elizabeth's future. She is very fortunate to have such a strong, loving family behind her, and a faith that provides strength and fellowship.

jt | 2:55 p.m. June 13, 2008

guess you utahns need something to write about. she is ok, that is a blessing but lets find something else to write about and to watch on the news.

jt | 2:57 p.m. June 13, 2008

oh and how many times does she have to tell this story??? i think alot of you are right, there are many people who are kidnapped and do not go on and on for years about it. $$$$$$$$$ is the root of all evil. she should go on with her life. geeesh

A former neighbor | 3:10 p.m. June 13, 2008

Congratulations on working through this Elizabeth. And to Ed, I'm still amazed (and a little guilty) that you held out hope for her long after I had lost all. Your example means a great deal to me now that I'm a parent.

Cheer You On, Elizabeth | 3:37 p.m. June 13, 2008

It is a given that when something like what she has been through, if they keep talking about it endlessly, the forgiveness, hurt and anger don't go away. She HAS chosen the BETTER part to keep quiet and let her heart heal in the process. Anger, hate and jealousy rob a person when it is harbored and the inability to let things of that nature go. It is a waste of valuable time as well to harbor the hate, anger and jealousy. Elizabeth, you have done amazingly well by how you have handled everything. Your parents have set the example, you didn't just get it all by yourself. I recall how your parents defended you and let the public know they were not going to press you to talk about it until you were ready. That is the wisdom of Solomon. Forgiving your captors is the greatest blessing of the atonement, it is too bad others cannot put their hurts behind and move forward as gracefully as it appears you have as an example. Well done...you have so much to look forward to and blessings that you deserve. Ignore the ignorant. God bless you.

DCnTN | 3:53 p.m. June 13, 2008

Those who ask why this story is in the news again should consider this. We are so used to only caring about sensationalism that we get only bad news. Good news is seldom sensational.

I have long wondered how this young woman has done, and I'm glad to hear she has coped so well. It's nice to read some news that is good.

Eddi Morgan | 4:28 p.m. June 13, 2008

To those people who are perturbed because she has told her story more than once, you obviously are self-centered not to realize that her experience could very well be the thing that helps another female, young or not. To give a guidance to look at and be able, hopefully, to rise above it, and not let it eat at you for the rest of your life. How senseless life is, if people only live for past hates and adversities. Isn't that what terrorists do??

Elizabeth, good luck to you | 4:41 p.m. June 13, 2008

The greatest crime this nut did was against the parents. He put them through hell. Elizabeth fortunately views this incident as an adventure that gave her perspective and helped her grow up.

It would devistate me if any of my children turned up missing. The family and the community is so fortunate that Elizabeth is safe.

Your "adventure" Elizabeth tramautized not only your family, but affected me deeply too.

I'm glad you take this as a positive experience, good luck to you Elizabeth.

Gal50 | 6:28 p.m. June 13, 2008

What saddens me is that our society now lives under the rule that crazy people can do anything they like and we will only take action after the fact, rather than treat the crazy person ahead of time. This policy is harmful to both the crazy person and everyone else.

One need only ask people on medication for schizophrenia whether they would prefer to be brought back toward normal or suffer needlessly with schizophrenia to determine that this group of people wants to be helped, but are often incapacitated to the extent that they can't seek help.

I had a normal friend who had a thyroid condition that is known to contribute to delusional disorder. He thought a lot of crazy things among them that the FBI was going to kill him. I know that my friend would be better off with treatment, but he wasn't in a state of mind that would allow him to get treatment. The law would not allow his relatives or his friends to commit him for treatment. I know that after treatment, he would appreciate us for what we did for him. No one knows what he might think or do.

Bravo Elizabeth

KLE | 6:52 p.m. June 13, 2008

Elizabeth is doing what Heavenly Father and Jesus wants us all to do-forgive and move. Another example of a strong testimony of our church and beliefs. Learn from this young woman!

mistismom | 7:18 p.m. June 13, 2008

I was "abused" by my step-father from four years old to 13. It took me many years of non-therapy to finally realize I had to forgive and then forget. Holding on to childhood trauma only keeps you from progressing with your more important relationships in life. The best one is the relationship with our Heavenly Father--he was my therapist. I wish Elizabeth the best of luck and hope she touches and heals many broken hearts.

wow! | 8:19 p.m. June 13, 2008

Wow, there is a lot of opinionated people in this world isn't there? If you have an opinion is it really necessary or any of your business to put it on this thing! Does it really make you people feel better... if anything it's just amusing to see everything from the pessimists to the optimistics... Just let the smarts take care of their own business they don't need all of us to discourage them or act like we really know what's going on in their lives... by people saying just forget about it and move on, why don't you guys do the same. You seem to be quite interested if you take the time to leave a comment! You're all going to read the article no matter what you are saying, that's seriously a fact!!

Sandra | 10:00 p.m. June 13, 2008

Thank God Elizabeth was returned. Maybe it has been 6 years, but we haven't been inundated with the story for six years, for pete's sake. This is a story with a happy ending... maybe she doesn't need counseling because she is a stronger person that others..people are all wired differently and someday she may need therapy- but until then she is coping as she does. Give the griping a rest and realize that this is a sight different than keeping up with Britney Spears and she's supposedly had therapy. I'm a counselor and I can say that. Peace comes to people in many different ways.

See the Twist? | 10:09 p.m. June 13, 2008

Have you noticed how often the comments quickly twist or turn from the article of interest, to the postings of those poor souls who can only object or complain? They remind me of those who stand and shout obscenities at general conference goers.

My suggestion is: just pay them no attention. Give them no response. Don't even look their way. Probably, the reason they do that is to see how many responses they can get to their negative approach. OR to see how many Mormons they can bother?! Don't give them the morbid satisfaction. Live above it and just ignore them and their attempts to change the subject.

To Elizabeth... | 10:22 p.m. June 13, 2008

I was so glad to see that an update about you would be in People.At times I wonder how you are doing.You were the victim of what parents fear.Your story was public.We prayed for you and rejoiced with your family when you came home."Thank You" for sharing,once again,with the public.You are a survivor and others need to know that people can survive when the unthinkable happens.When I read about you today,it makes me smile.Your AWESOME!

Ronald A. Young | 10:37 p.m. June 13, 2008

My Issue Of People came today, I read the Story, Nice Story, Nice Update, Nice Goals. She is a Good person and her family are Good People. Other nice stories in the issue also.

Poor girl | 11:44 p.m. June 13, 2008

Poor woman, she hopefully will find someone that won't use her. Why are some parents such exploiters of their children? This story mirrors my memories of Mormon culture and money.

Jpjazz | 11:55 p.m. June 13, 2008

This young lady deserves our respect and support. As she has matured her decision to speak out is clearly her own. I trust we all will grant her the space to do just that.

sb | 12:35 a.m. June 14, 2008

Why did she not escape and why did she deny who she was when police came to resuce her??
Strange

Canadiandy | 2:04 a.m. June 14, 2008

People critical of a young woman with the courage to speak out about a horrible experience from when she was a little girl? Where do these people come from?

I stop in from time to time to check out the DN forums. I mean no offense, but the polarized comments make Utahns look like wackos. I lived in Utah for two years and I do not believe the forum posters are a good representation of the wonderful members of the State.................Please, Deseret News, end the forum. It has become a sounding board for the extreme.

Drew

deborah, wassim's mom | 2:07 a.m. June 14, 2008

you have to read this,, please,, my son had a horrific accident on Feburary 15, 2003, we contacted a medium, Paula Vaughn, she told us that my son found Elizabeth,, I have documenation on this. thanks

Childish | 3:37 a.m. June 14, 2008

Some of the comments here, unfortunately, are proof that some people, no matter how old they get, will never grow up. Childish, both in the way they act, and in the way they perceive the world.

CurtisHight | 5:12 a.m. June 14, 2008

I'm far away and I've seen little of the media coverage of Elizabeth since it was national news, but I do remember the reported story of the conversation between her father and her grandfather the day she was recovered, and I remember the picture of her grandfather holding her tenderly.

Eve was in the company of Elohim, Jehovah, Adam, and Seth; and Sariah the same with the most high God, His Son, Lehi, and Nephi; and Mary as well with the Highest, Their Son, Joseph, and John. Also present were the Romans, the Sanhedrin, Laman and Lemuel, Cain, and the Adversary. Elizabeth has also been surrounded by male beings of light and darkness, and many shades betwixt; may she love and embody Wisdom. From her comments in the article is appears that she is indeed becoming wise. Go girl! :-)
___
May every good thing come to our sister Elizabeth!

Smart Lady | 6:57 a.m. June 14, 2008

Elizabeth you are one lovely ,smart girl..I know your story will help others..Being strong and not running and hiding for the rest of your life is the best thing to do, more people need guts like you.I admire your strenth and able to live a norman life. The negative people should take lessons from you.Just keep your story alive it is helping some..There will always be negative thinkers.

randi roberson | 7:38 a.m. June 14, 2008

I dont know what I would do if I were stolen from my famaly and i think elizabeth is very brave to be abel to tell her story on the news.

Triumphant | 8:09 a.m. June 14, 2008

Elizabeth when you went back to where you were held captive with your parents, I will never forget what you said, when your mother asked you how you felt about returning there, Your response was, "TRIUMPHANT". I will never forget that or how I felt when you said it. You are a brave and wonderful example to all who read your story. Your Christ like example to forgive those who hurt you is a lesson we all need to reflect upon in our own lives. May the Lord continue to bless you and heal you as you continue your journy through life. Thank you.

A.J.W. | 8:25 a.m. June 14, 2008

To SB: Maybe you should read the story to find out! I bought my copy Friday night and was very impressed with Elizabeth's maturity and grace. Thanks for telling your story, Elizabeth -- I hope it helps loads of other kids.

psycho babble | 9:12 a.m. June 14, 2008

To the therapaists and believers in therapy-- everything presented here is anecdotal evidence. Not one of you could produce class one eveidence of the efficacy of psychotherapy. It does not exist. The human brain is so complex it is difficult to understand. Some may be just fine working their traun=ma out in their own way. Others may need therapy. However, I would use caution when involving others in your treatment. If given the role of the healer, some may believe everything they are told. Therapist can create problems too. Bottom line is that their is no proof (class one clinical trials testing outcomes) supporting therapy; it is all theoretical.

awesomeron | 10:36 a.m. June 14, 2008

To: To Awesomeron. No! I think they both should be tried and put to death, thatï¿½s my opinion. However in real life if you cannot bring them to Trial because they are way whacked, then you at least keep them locked up. Not only would Liz Smart Not Be Safe but neither would any one else.

URGGG | 10:37 a.m. June 14, 2008

You all need to get a life and quit complaining. If this ever happened to you then you have a right to say something. Otherwise Shut your trap. You have absolutely NO right to critisize!!!!

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