Jesse James Interview: "I was Abused as a Child"

Jesse James continues to open up on camera, providing explanations for what he did that has decimated his marriage, marred his reputation and broken more than a couple of hearts.

Today we're learning that Jesse James was a victim of child abuse. Jesse confessed that his father so brutalized him as a child, that it was the shame and feelings of unworthiness that drove him to behave in ways which would ultimately destroy everything that he held dear - his marriage, his family, his livelihood, his reputation.

Some may look at Jesse's confession and revelations and feel he is providing nothing more than excuses. But, if you've ever been the victim of child abuse, then you certainly understand what he is talking about.

In what appears to be a very insightful interview, Jesse James also said that the actual abuse paled in comparison to the "time in between" the beatings. The fear of not knowing what might be coming was worse than what actually came. To the mind of a child, that must have been a hell that cannot be fathomed.

Since this story broke, I have written more than few words on Jesse James' behavior. I wanted to know, like so many other women, if Jesse was sorry for what he did or sorry that he was simply caught? I would venture to say, probably both.

I understand what Jesse means when he talks about worrying that his wife would find out what a loser he was (my words) and leave him anyway. So, based on that logic, then why not behave in ways that will drive her away? Simply go ahead and get it over with, because she was going to leave anyway. Anyone who has been the victim of child abuse understands exactly what Jesse is talking about.

From the time Jesse was released from his rehab stint and the world caught a glimpse of him, he appeared to me to be deeply sorry for what he had done. Not in the "Tiger Woods I'm sorry" kind of way, but in the really "from the heart, I'm sorry" kind of way. I think that Jesse James actually grasps the magnitude of his actions and how they have affected other people. Tiger Woods, if I may say, still does not.

I sure many people will see Jesse James' actions right now as someone who is simply trying to cover his cheating ass and salvage his reputation. I'm also sure there is a measure of truth in that. But, I think Jesse James is doing much more than that. I think he actually gets it. It may certainly be a little too little too late, but as we often say, "better late than never".

Whether it will be enough to salvage his relationship with Sandra Bullock remains to be seen. But, I have to tip my hat to a guy who is willing to take a long hard look at his heart and take responsibility for who he is.

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