Religion and abuse

I'm a 15 year old, and I have been a victim of physical abuse. My dad would often use a paddle or a two-by-four and hit me with it. It not only hurt and left me with bruises, it was a experiance that I probably won't forget. I used to not even talk to people, I was very shy and scared that someone would make fun of me or tell everyone what happened to me. But one day after school, I went to my room and cried and prayed and asked God to help me with all of my sufferings. I asked him to show me a sign. So the next day at school, one of my classmates came up to me and asked me if I was alright. I hugged him and began to blubber and cry and tell him about everything. He brought me to a counselor and helped me get over everything.
     Sometimes I believe it was him that helped me get over my shyness and hate of my dad, but I know truly that it was God the whole time. He helped me learn that forgiveness is a powerfull tool, whether you are catholic or not. It gives you an overwhelming sense of peace and healing. Your life might turn completely turn around, or it will become a much better place if you try to love and respect the person that seems to be having the trouble of loving you. Please comment and ask questions and I will try and get back to you.