As a child, Margaret was sexually abused by adults in her neighborhood and by a family member, and neglected and emotionally abused by her parents. Her wants were ignored or ridiculed, and her treatment was uncaring to say the least. Sent to school in shabby clothing without proper hygiene, she soon learned what it was to be rejected by her peers as well. Because of this early mistreatment, she became disillusioned with religion but later returned to faith after a significant religious experience.