My name is Abi Orcutt and I live in California. I am in the Family International. I’m 24 years old and a mom of three.

I’m not very gifted at putting my thoughts to paper, but I feel the need to speak up about what is taking place.

I’m the type of person that would have loved to live in “Little House on the Prairie” days, things seemed to be simpler back then. To be honest I felt like I was living in those days before this whole thing happened with Ricky. My life was simple, challenging and full of excitement, but simple. It’s got me really thinking about if what I’m doing is the best, that of raising my kids in the Family. I guess that is what these ex-members wanted us to do, so you acheived that goal. And since I owe it to you, since you got me to stop and look at my life, I feel I also owe it to you to tell you exactly how I feel about what you are accusing The Family and me of.

I feel that The Family International is the best place to be, I know I don’t have tons of experience outside of The Family, but just looking and talking with people who are not in The Family, makes me thankful for being a member.

Just cause you can’t understand why I’m in The Family, I can’t understand why you’re not. I know the Family is not for everyone, but why can’t you accept that the Family is for me.

As far as the alleged accusations of abuse. I have NEVER experienced any abuse in my life. And if I felt that the Family would in any way hurt my 3 children, I would simply leave and pursue a different lifestyle. I have thought this one through and I CHOOSE to raise my kids in The Family. I wish you could help us all be seeing how through your “helping us” you are hurting us.

Abi Orcutt is a second-generation member of The Family International