Deseret News | Elizabeth Smart opens up to People

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Elizabeth Smart opens up to People

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EL | 11:09 a.m. June 14, 2008

Six years later and more story. How much can this incident be milked? Let the girl completely heal and get on with her life.

Re: Therapy | 11:30 a.m. June 14, 2008

Many people don't have the same resources or support to deal with traumatic situations as Elizabeth did. For those who have trouble sorting out the effects of troubling events, therapy is a good place to get those skills. People shouldn't feel guilty about needing therapy because someone chose not to get it or doesn't believe in it.

kaneohe_wahine | 11:53 a.m. June 14, 2008

Thank Goodness for the gospel. I know that through this gospel love and understanding slowly comes and is met. Your story is heartfelt and educational for those who have been in similar situations. Thank you for your courage.

Comments continue below

Ed Clinch | 12:23 p.m. June 14, 2008

Victims have the right to deal with their issues how they may, and part of healing and self esteem is the act of helping others, inspiring others.

She and her family have the right to act as they may.

Also, if the Smarts ever read my comment, I ask you to speak with the author of "Under the Banner of Heaven", Jon Krakauer. He puts a theme throughout his book that Mormons are particularly violent or unstable mentally. He dedicates a whole chapter to the Liz Smart case.

It would be nice if you could have personal dialogue with him and help explain that LDS are as normal as anyone when it comes to violence and extremism, and how our values are not as unusual as he purports.

More power to you, sister.

Inspirational comebacks are always refreshing and reinvigorating.

Nicole Yhomsa | 1:01 p.m. June 14, 2008

Dear E.,
To be so strong, to be so (no pun intended) Smart, and so lovely is a triumph indeed. Add to that your determination to help others-I share your determination, if not exactly the same experience. If you do at some time become angry or resentful, remember our Lord blesses our feelings , all of them, unless you were to take sinful action.
All my best to you.

Bob | 1:43 p.m. June 14, 2008

Okay, I'll accept this at face value. But if she shows up on Dancing With the Stars, or starts hosting a reality show with Ed about abducted kids, I'm going to start thinking they're laying it on thick.

C. S. in AZ | 2:53 p.m. June 14, 2008

I understand and am anxious to read about how Elizabeth is doing. My daughter was also raped (11 yrs.old)and kidnapped, as well as being strangled & left for dead. We felt that since she could talk about it to us, she didn't need (or want) counseling. However, she started struggling with issues later. Then she lost 3 children and their father in a fire. She went off the deep end, and had some major struggles. She finally did get counseling and it helped immensely. She would still like to have counseling with her daughter (the only one who survived the fire), who also needs it, but finances are too tight for them right now. I know that the counseling helped so much for them. Everyone handles situations differently though. Maybe in time, Elizabeth will want counseling, maybe not. But whatever she does, it is her decision. And those of you who think she is just doing this interview for the money...you are totally off the wall. My daughter is always anxious to help people with their problems since she's been there. That's the same with Elizabeth, I think.
CS in AZ

Perspective | 2:53 p.m. June 14, 2008

I look forward to reading the whole story. My son has been through some horrific things and unknown to me he followed her story. She became a hero to him and he has drawn from her strength to help himself put things behind him. Maybe her story won't reach everyone-but it can reach some people and I am sure that she has the perspective & maturity to understand that. If her story doesn't speak to you on some level then don't read it. But don't fault her for being willing to put herself out there and risking the negative comments so that she might be a strength and hero for those who need that.

No Name Girl | 2:59 p.m. June 14, 2008

Elizabeth, I am so happy for you. I prayed for you. You are a real inspiration to me! If more people were like you and had a wonderful, loving family like yours, what a terriffic world we would have.

Jan Riley | 3:19 p.m. June 14, 2008

I can't believe there are so many ugly, negative people out there. My mother taught me that If you can't say something nice about a person, keep your mouth shut. Elizabeth is to be commended for her courage. She is a lovely, gracious young woman.

Liberty Park | 5:11 p.m. June 14, 2008

Elizabeth,
If only my husband and I knew it was you when the three of you approched us at the children's playground back in August 2002 and my husband bought hotdogs and drinks for you. We just could'nt tell who you were under the veil.
We are so greatful that your family has you back.
M&B

From St. George | 5:50 p.m. June 14, 2008

Dear Ed and Lois:
A few months ago I saw you in Salt Lake. At first, I could not put a name to a face, I only felt that you were old friends I had not seen for while. In the few minutes it took me to recognize you for who you are, I then realized you truly were the special people I had let into my home for the 9 months Elizabeth was gone. You were the family I had prayed each night for. I shed tears of joy when Elizabeth was found safe. May God bless you for your willingness to help others. That is what life is all about.

awesomeron | 6:23 p.m. June 14, 2008

I think some people are Jealous of her that she has come through her storm so well. This is in part her way of healing. The Article was not that deep and did not give us much more information then we already knew. Took her sister off the hook so to speak. Just an up date for a lot of people who prayed for her and her family, some to include holding fasts. She became a kid sister, daughter, cousin, and we worried about her and where concerned. People prayed for her and her family. They are nice people, didnï¿½t deserve this to happen to them. I would never have let that scum ball near my house. I might have given him money just go away. Soaked Him, Most likely called him a few nasty names. However they did what they did and that in and of its self was proper. What happened was not. She did what she had to do, and came out okay. She has the right to tell/sell her Story and People Mag has the right to buy it. People who are against that get over it. You No Life is showing.

A Mother also | 8:03 p.m. June 14, 2008

All our thoughts and prayer were with you thru your ordeal. Always hoping that you would somehow be that miracle that would be found. We were thrilled the day the news came that you had been found and that you were returning to your loving family. Your strengh and courage have helped lift so many of us in our lives. We are thrilled that you are going forward with your life. The Lord must have many wonderful things in store for you....Keep going so many of us feel that you became a part of our family also....Best wishes.

Ken | 8:47 p.m. June 14, 2008

As one who kind of got tired of this story during the year that it all happened, I must admit that I am quite impressed with Miss Smart. I mean, here's a girl who went through some undoubtedly extremely tramatic events, and yet seems to be as or more solid than most people who never have faced 9 months of captivity.

To the cynics (and at times that may have included me), I really don't see Miss Smart or her parents trying to capitalize on her "story." I think she knows that her words/story can still get press, and is using that to continue to help others who may be dealing with similar situations (most of which don't turn out nearly as well hers, sadly).

I say, good for her!!

Just another comment | 9:15 p.m. June 14, 2008

Therapy does not help people forget an incident. I don't know how somebody could forget something as horrific as being raped and kidnapped. I believe that correctly using the atonement of Christ to help forgive another is all someone needs to get through such a trial. So many self-help books and therapy sessions could be replaced by a serious study and application of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Allan, from Cincinnati | 10:18 p.m. June 14, 2008

I think you were right about talking to your family.When I got back from Viet Nam, I talked to my dad, who was also a combat Marine...how can you talk to anyone who has no clue to what you have been through? Father has blessed us with family for many reasons, to ignore them would be just foolish.
Your a smart girl,and brave to share it with others to help them help themselves.It's more than I could do!

A call to Elizabeth's Parent | 11:39 p.m. June 14, 2008

I will remain anonymous, but to Elizabeth and her parents...they know who I am. I placed a call that late fall during Elizabeth's unknown whereabouts. I had researched how to be involved in search and rescue. During that time I was able to speak specifically with one of Elizabeth's parents.(Sharing my own tragedy and struggle) My words........Elizabeth WILL be found and she IS alive. I am grateful to God that miracles do happen! So many times we as people feel as though all hope is gone, that we should "give up", but we can't...we shouldn't. Here is a young woman (younger at the time) who through God's awesome strength was able to endure and even forgive. Let us pray that justice is served....which it will be. Elizabeth if you're reading.....you are a unusual and most special gift...you are a light on a hill, that should never be hidden under a bushel. Continue to shine and lead others to know the almighty who showed you the way back home.
God bless and I pray your life continues to move forward by the great power of the almighty God!
Very truly,
C.A.

Anonymous | 11:50 p.m. June 14, 2008

What ever happened to that spokesperson the Smarts hired? Is he still on the payroll? I'm sure he probably got a cut from the People story.

As far as the critics of the DNews running the story, look at the volume and quantity of comments. The News is in the business of selling newspapers just as People is in the business of selling magazines. E. Smart will probably never tire.

DHK | 6:07 a.m. June 15, 2008

I think kidnapping is a federal crime. therefore it has nothing to do with stae courts. Just another pathetic person turning this story into a knock on UTAH.

Momoffour | 7:10 a.m. June 15, 2008

Like many others, I feel it is crazy to complain about this. What bad can it do? Hello...I know some get annoyed thinking there are so many other kids out there who are missing and no one thinks about them, well guess what... you just did! Because of this, just seeing her face and hearing her story again, reminds us of all that again! And about the money, if you think that if given the opportunity, they wouldn't give everything they have and more for this to have never happened, your nuts. Don't you see that people have been hounding them for years to do this? Should they have said, ok fine we will talk, but you can't pay us!!! Get real people. Would that make YOU feel better if you thought they didn't take any money? Get over it. Remember the story of the Amish community and how they shared there desire to forgive the shooter of their young girls? What a great message that shared to the world. I believe that is the message that Elizabeth wants to share. HEAR it please and let the negitiveness go!

CMJ | 7:50 a.m. June 15, 2008

Hateful comments from hateful people. Get a life --- you are so pathetic.

Abigail | 11:54 a.m. June 15, 2008

Elizabeth, Please don't ever stop telling your story....the world needs to know, I can't understand how some of these posts can be so cruel. Your story brings inspiration to lost children everywhere, and HOPE to the parents who have lost their children by stranger abductions. Your story reminds me of the one of Shawn H. from Missouri, who was held hostage for years, it made me so mad when people kept saying that he just stayed with that gross man, Michael D., so he could get out of school, and hang out. This was a child terrifed out of his mind, as I am sure you were also. Elizabeth, I have 3 kids, a 13 year old son, 9 year old daughter, and an 7 year old daughter....if something ever happened to them I would probably have to be hospitalized. For the sake of my kids, and children all over the world, tell your story as many times as you can! You are a smart and beautiful girl, all the love in the world to you!

bubbily | 12:10 p.m. June 15, 2008

i think it was a good thing she posted her story... and for all u that dont think so then y are u here??? u should be off somewhere playing video games or somethin like that... u see i find that story interesting and it might even be able to give advice to the people who have been kidnapped or almost kidnaped.... and it could teach people how to be more like her and forgive... and i imperessed how she reacted to this....

way to go Elizabeth keep it up

DONNA LECKENBY | 3:14 p.m. June 15, 2008

ELIZABETH i THINK YOUR A WONDERFUL PERSON AND iM SO GLAD THAT YOUR DOING SO WELL YOU MAKE PEOLE WAKE UP TO THE REAL LIFE AND WE ALL NEED TO HELP EACH OTHER SO JUST KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND PASS IT ON YOU WILL BE BLESSED THANK YOU DONNA

Karen | 3:23 p.m. June 15, 2008

I also was one who prayed for Elizabeth for those nine months she was gone.I had often wondered how she was doing.I look forward to the story.

53 year old mother of 6 | 3:50 p.m. June 15, 2008

I am glad to read that Elizabeth is doing well. I actually was wondering how she is doing now, so thanks for sharing that with all of us. I was very involved in the story when it was happening to the whole family. I am a believer in miracles, but I was still in awe that she was safely returned to her family after all that time. God is good and merciful and He knows our hearts. May God continue to bless the Smart family.

Carlyn | 10:18 p.m. June 15, 2008

Everyone has a right to their opinoins and deserve the opportunity to express them. I agree with those who have said if you don't agree with Miss Smart doing the interview than don't buy the magazine. I say that anyone who has gone through such an ordeal and has come out on top, at least for the time being, more power to them.

Mike from St. George | 12:02 a.m. June 16, 2008

It is amasing how many of you think that this is all about the money. You abvisouly don't know much about the Smart Family. For the angry fellow who asked how did they know where she was. If you were following the story as much as you seem to say you have you would know that he had worked on the Smart's home. He was one of the many homeless people Ed helped out by giving them a job instead of hireing someone else. You have obviousely no idea as to the number of times Elizabeth has been in the news nor do you know what the articles were about. Elizabeth IS an intellengent young woman who deserves to be put on a pedistel for her desire to share what she has not only learned from this ordeal, but what she learned about the gospel and its ability to show what can happen if you follow the Lord's adive to forgive and forget. I will never forget the day she was found. God bless your family and to you little sister for listening to the promptings of the spirit

Vegas | 12:50 a.m. June 16, 2008

The year Elizabeth was found was one of the worst and most sorrowful years of my life. However, her recovery was a brilliant bright spot of hope in the middle of all my personal anguish. I cried for joy and also called others to share the news. It was such a highlight, such a rare success story, such a wonderful miracle. I'm so thankful her story has a happy ending, so few do, and it I feel elated every time I remember that at least one child was recovered, one of the many whose stories do not end so happily. Thanks to God.

Anonymous | 8:24 a.m. June 16, 2008

For everyone who thinks Elizabeth is doing this for money or attention, she's not. She doesn't go around talking about what she's been through. In fact, if people ask, unless they're close friends she graciously avoids the question. She is trying to get on with her life and doing a great job at it. The fact that she is speaking out now, along with the federal pamphlet she helped write, shows that she genuinely wants to help others. Please stop judging someone you don't know.

Honeybear | 9:46 a.m. June 16, 2008

I remember praying for her safe return as well. I see why people are concerned about the media bit, but she was 14 and needed time to recover and wait until SHE felt like doing something about it. Some people in life don't ever talk about something like that and wither and die. I think it's good for her to get out her feelings about it. She shows good character for forgiving someone who hurt her a lesson we all need. It takes courage and strength to forgive an opporessor and until we have been through it ourselves we will shouldn't be judging he so harshly what she's been through. Speculating isn't helping either. It's her story, her experience, therefore she should be the one to say it.

Effie Reba | 11:24 a.m. June 16, 2008

Thank you for sharing and enlighting us.

I have worked with the homeless as an employee at the Road Home. It is common for many caring people to help them do work for pay and your mother did no wrong in her heart to try to help someone with work and pay.

Thank you again for being strong and keep speaking out against all abuse and wrong to all mankind.

Our thoughts are with you and keep smiling. It is beautiful. You are home!!

Inspiring Forgiveness | 11:38 a.m. June 16, 2008

Bravo, Elizabeth! Your courageous example of forgiveness is truly inspiring. Thank you. May God continue to bless you.

Anonymous | 12:10 p.m. June 16, 2008

I have thought that there was something weird about the whole thing. Just didn't add up.

Nancy | 1:04 p.m. June 16, 2008

What a smart girl! Keep walking into the light and let the Lord take care of the rest. You're much too good to drool in sorrow. Walk tall -- you're somebody really, really special!

Anonymous | 1:12 p.m. June 16, 2008

way to go Elizabeth you are an inspiration to all people keep up all that you do may god continue to bless you as you bless the lives of all those you come in contact with if only the world had more people like you thank you for your inspiration

In Elizabeth's defense..... | 2:36 p.m. June 16, 2008

Elizabeth is a marvel! She is not doing this for publicity...I could bet on that! She may feel this is Heavenly Father's mission for her...to reach out to those who still suffer...to those who are still haunted by being unforgiving. Please, Elizabeth...please share your process of forgiving those evil people! Please continue to bear testimony of God and the good that can come from bad things that happen to good people! There will always be opposition and persecutors in regards to good! Keep it up Elizabeth! We are thankful you are home safe! Thanks for being so strong and continue to turn to God for help! You are an inspiration to all! Thanks for being that way!

Anonymous | 10:11 p.m. June 16, 2008

I can't believe people are still talking about this. I mean she is the biggest moron for just sitting there for 9 months. I can't believe she was like a few miles away from her home and didn't even bother to try to escape. You all should see the episode on the Chappelle Show when he makes fun of her.

Jealous | 10:25 p.m. June 16, 2008

This whole thing has become a kind of "parlor" game. Sort of like where were you when Kennedy was shot? Ed, or whomever is responsible for this seemingly never ending series of news releases: we all were horrified at what happened to your daughter. Please, enough already!

From North Carolina | 8:20 a.m. June 17, 2008

Elizabeth is a shining testimony to the truthfulness of the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the fact that they hold true for her as a Mormon as well as for any other sincere Christian! Jesus Christ is a rewarder of those who love him and exercise faith in Him as HE has revealed Himself in the Book of Mormon AND the Bible.

Forgiveness is the key to getting rid of the venom that evil infuses upon its victims. I think God Elizabeth was able to have the faith to grant it.

Anonymous | 1:00 p.m. June 17, 2008

Wow! lots of negative people who must not have anything better to do Elizaebth Smart is a very bright and beautiful young women who has made the best out of something very traumatic what an inspiration she is and a great example of the attonement in action way to go Elizabeth keep being an example and continue to share your sweet spirit and personality with all those you come in contact with thank you so much

tom | 6:56 p.m. June 20, 2008

you know, the trauma and issues brought on by her ordeal will not all manifest immediately. There may be a time, in her thirties when she may be in need of a counselor. I hope she will be open to that possibility.

Paula | 3:53 p.m. June 21, 2008

Thank you Elizabeth! Your courage and strength gives me hope to go on and not give up. I hope & pray someday MY family will realize I DIDN'T just "walk away" from them and will love me once again. And to any of you who wonder why Elizabeth "didn't just runaway" it's NOT that easy! Trust me-I know! I've been asked the same question and you can't just "runaway" when being held captive and you fear for your life and esp for the life of your loved ones!!! I'm trying not to give up but it's SO hard and reading your story has given me new hope! My captor monitors my every move and if caught on this computer I'm in big trouble but I had to try to reach out... Again-thank you for telling your story Elizabeth! I'm thankful you are home safe and are such a strong person! Best of luck to you always!!!

Paula | 3:59 p.m. June 21, 2008

P.S. By the way-I'm an adult and as hard as this is for me I can not even begin to imagine how scared and alone you must have felt! NO ONE has the right to judge ANYTHING Eilzabeth did, does, etc. because YOU have NOT walked in her shoes!!!

lg | 12:28 a.m. June 26, 2008

You are a strong woman that does wish to dwell on the past.

Like you, I live my life that way and am very happy. i commend you for your perserverance and intellecty. For it is that which will get you further thorugh this and make you strong.

Great regards,

Lacey Glass

Therapy!! | 12:19 p.m. June 26, 2008

I am very grateful that she survived that horrible situation. She is very strong and it's great she wants to tell her story and help others. The only thing I was shocked about was that she refused therapy. How is she going to have a normal relationship with any man after being abused and raped? You can't heal yourself from that pain let alone family members. I hope she reconsiders and gets professional help so she can have a healthy relationship with a man and not be scared to be physical with him. But it is her choice and if she feels she will be ok without therapy then I hope for the best for her. Thanks for being strong and trying to help others!

jab | 11:19 a.m. June 29, 2008

Thank you People Magazine for the Elizabeth Smart story. I was very happy to read that Elizabeth Smart is getting on with her life. I am even more happy that she is going to college and doing every thing in her power to have a normal life and not allowing those nut cases to rule her life. The strength of her parents while she was missing was astronomical even though it is proven fact that there is only a small window to find a missing child alive. They never gave up and after reading the story, it is quite obvious that the apple did not fall far from the tree. Good

Crystal | 4:27 p.m. July 2, 2008

I enjoyed reading that Elizabeth has carried on with her life. I appreciate this story because I have often wondered many times what happened to her after this horrible crime. I am disapointed in some of the comments and one particular web site that is treating her like a criminal instead of a victim. I myself have been a victim of rape and you can talk about what you would do or wouldn't do, but you don't know what you will do untill you are the one it is happening to. I myself had no therapy and have a wonderful life, however everyone deals with tragedy differently. I support her decisions and am glad to know that she is a strong woman who did not let these people control her life. People need to get off of her back and support her and her family.

Anonymous | 11:29 p.m. July 13, 2008

Good for you Elizabeth. May God continue to be with you and your family. You have chosen the better way.

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