By Jill Szoo Wilson
Yes, I have read the statement.
When several people first sent me the link from different directions, I chose not to read it. Instead, I simply reposted the response I had written after the third lawsuit.
Later, I learned that the statement discussed the discovery materials, including my subscriber lists. At that point, I decided to read it for myself.
The statement itself isn’t what matters to me.
What I do want to address is the discussion of the subscriber lists.
If I were one of my former subscribers, the question I would most want answered is this: Were my emails, messages, or personal stories turned over in discovery?
To the best of my knowledge, what I produced in discovery were subscriber lists — not the personal messages you sent me.
During the seven months that I defended myself in court, I met with one of my mentors to talk through everything that was happening. She said something I have never forgotten:
“You had to tell your story. Imagine where you would be if you hadn’t.”
She was right.
I am deeply grateful for that year. As we say in the theatre, I left it all on the boards. I wrestled honestly with my own story, asked difficult questions, took accountability, learned painful truths, and discovered grace in your stories, support, and at times your admonitions.
When the case settled, I experienced something I had not felt in a very long time: peace.
As part of that settlement, I agreed to restrictions on what I could say publicly. That was a significant concession, but I signed it without regret because I had already said what I needed to say. I had learned what I needed to learn, and I had the privilege of walking alongside countless thoughtful, courageous, truth-seeking men and women as many of us found language for our own stories.
That year was pivotal and beautiful.
I don’t care about my reputation. My identity is in Christ. He has forgiven me. Hallelujah! My husband has forgiven me, and our marriage is stronger, more peaceful, and more Christ-honoring than it was before. My family has forgiven me. My friends, students, fellow congregants, and colleagues know who I am. Their love and friendship have never been defined by this chapter of my life.
Life has moved forward.
So let me end with what matters most.
Tell your story.
Could you be sued? Yes.
Will some people misunderstand you? Yes.
Will some people think you’re foolish, attention-seeking, or worse? Probably.
Will others recognize themselves in your honesty and finally find the courage to speak? Absolutely.
I’ve sat in rooms where men and women shared their stories aloud for the very first time. I’ve watched tears fall that they were convinced would destroy them. I’ve seen unbearable grief met with patient listeners, steady hands, compassion, and grace. I’ve watched smiles return, hearts begin to heal, and voices that once trembled become steady again.
For all of it, I give glory to God. Every story of healing belongs to Him.
Please don’t let fear keep you silent.
When you tell the truth about your own life, you give others permission to do the same. Stories told honestly have a way of calling people out of isolation, out of shame, and into the light.
Peace to you all,
Jill
Jill Szoo Wilson 