Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/32804
Rita Britt Rita Britt is a creative force to be reckoned with. Originally from England, her journey into the world of art and design began in a London fashion house at the tender age of 15. After a young Britt was then swept off her feet by an American soldier and transplanted to the Midwest, she became a sculptor, painter, writer and eventually an interior designer, running her own firm, Britt Interiors, for the last 26 years. Now 70, Britt is known for her elegance, strength and compassion—traits that have come from a lifetime of experiences. May 2011 bravamagazine.com 49 Hello Dear Heart, I’m here to tell you some things I wish you had known earlier, when you really needed it. You have quite the story to tell, and someday you will look at what you have gone through and stand taller. I know you are in a place where things are much different. I’m sorry to say that some of these things have not much changed and those left vulnerable are still prey. You are one of seven kids. The family was ruled by a violent father and a mother who did her best to protect you. But there were times when you were left alone with him. You were barely pubescent, yet already a witness to the darker side of life, and about to experience more. There is no need to go into details, you know what happened. Fully aware of your mother’s precarious position and her f ight to keep you all safe, you knew you could never tell her and you don’t…ever. It will be your way of pro- tecting her. But all the signs—from your slipped grades to your sudden penchant for f ights and vandalism—were there for others to see. No one recognized them except for one person: your head mistress at school. And even when she asked what was happening, you could not tell her because you were too afraid and ashamed. Eventually, you escape him by coming to America. Nobody knows, not even your siblings, until after your mother dies and he has been dead long since. Then the ques- tions will come. “Did it happen to you?” They’ll say, “No!” Then you’ll be left to ask, “Why just me?” Hear me now and hear me good! None of that is your fault. You were the innocent victim of a man with a twisted mind. The pain you carry today will change. When he dies, alone, you will shed a tear not from grief, but relief. The nightmares you have will follow you from one country to the next, and they will gradually lessen. You will become strong. Very, very strong. The legacy set by your mother will live on, guiding you through your trials and tribulations—and you’ll have many. Her wisdom will comfort you and your children will adore her. Cancer will come to you twice and you’ll beat it. Then it will come to your daugh- ter and she’ll beat it. Though your eldest will lose her husband to cancer, she will remarry and be happy. Your two deaf children will open a world to you. And in their adult lives, know that they receive cochlear implants, opening up the world to them. You will have f ive grandchildren who bring you great joy. In your twilight years you will look back on the tapestry of all these experiences and marvel at the vibrancy, noting how the dark background serves only to con- trast beautifully with the colors and patterns you’ve weaved into your fantastic life. For now, take comfort in knowing that those who prey on the innocent, when caught, will be punished. There are laws to protect you, people you can turn to with- out fear of consequences. The shame you feel now is not yours, it belongs to him. Guard that part of you that makes you who you are—no one can take that from you. You are loved and I am so proud of you and where you are going, Dear Heart. Love, You