I first met Angela Smith several months ago, in the beginning of 2004. I only lived with her for a few short months before she moved on, but in that time she showed me how life was meant to be lived: she gave freely and generously of everything she had, loving those around her genuinely and unconditionally. Her constant cheerfulness and zest for living were contagious. She constantly went to great lengths to ensure the well-being and happiness of those she lived and worked with.

When I first heard news of the recent events, I couldn’t believe it. How could anyone be so demented, filled with such hatred to end such a wonderful life? How could one such as Ricky Rodriguez, who had been brought up in an atmosphere filled with nothing but love and the best of care, commit such a violent and horrific crime?

But I was even more shocked and disgusted still, to find that some were actually advocating and supporting his actions, saying that she “deserved it” and that it was “too bad he only got one.” To those who voiced these opinions: what if he had, and it had been one of your parents, siblings or friends who remain in the Family? Would they too “deserve it?”

How can you all, who once lived with us, who were happy with the lives you led and were working with us toward the same goals, change your tune so drastically? Why do you now see your entire time in the Family as a traumatic, abusive time in your lives? Why do you now waste your lives trying to harm and destroy instead of helping others as you once did? Why can’t you just move on?

In my 20 years growing up in the Family, I was never once abused or mistreated, nor were any of my friends or family. Honestly, this accusation (child abuse) has been disproved time and time again. The only people I know that ever suffered any form of abuse were those that suffered it at the hands of the Australian and Argentine government institutions, from their so-called “rescuers.”

I am the oldest sibling in a family of 9. If I thought for a second, that any of them were in danger, I would not rest until their well being was assured. I know though, that they receive nothing but love, care and excellent schooling from their parents and caretakers. I believe The Family International is the very best place to raise children. Society at large has nothing to offer in comparison.

I am here because I want to be here. No one is forcing me. This is a life and a Family that I love – one that I would die for. Of course, not everyone is cut out for this lifestyle. Many of my friends have left, and I don’t look down on them at all for their decisions in life. In fact, I admire them for getting on with their lives instead of wasting them in bitterness and anger against the Family.

I don’t kid myself. I know there will always be those who will try to destroy and undermine the life I lead. There will always be false accusations thrown at us. But, I pity those who try, because “If God be for us, who can be against us?”

Marie Peloquin is a second-generation member of the Family International.