Look How Far You've Come

Dear Readers,

Life is a constant journey filled with victories, defeats, and countless challenges that test our strength and resilience. Sometimes, in the midst of the chaos, we may forget just how far we've come. We become so engrossed in the present moment, tackling one obstacle after another, that we fail to acknowledge our achievements and growth along the way. However, there are moments when we pause, take a deep breath, and reflect on our journey. And that's when it hits us: we did it.

Throughout our lives, we endure storms that we never thought we would survive. We face circumstances that push us to our limits, leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. In these moments of darkness, it's easy to lose sight of our inner strength, to doubt our ability to overcome the shadows. Yet somehow, we persevere. We weather the storms and withstand the turbulence, one day at a time. The power within us to keep going is truly remarkable.

Like climbing a mountain, life often presents us with peaks that seem impossible to conquer. These peaks represent our deepest fears, insecurities, and self-doubts. We may question if we have what it takes to overcome them, unsure if we possess the capacity to climb any higher. 

But here's the thing: we do. With each step forward, we discover strength and resilience we never knew existed within us. We conquer those mountains, slowly but surely, until we reach the summit. The view from the top is breathtaking, and it's a testament to our perseverance and determination.

When we stop and take a moment to look back on our journey, we realize that we have made it through countless storms and climbed mountains that once seemed unreachable. We find ourselves in a place we never thought we would reach. Yet, here we are, standing tall. That within itself is an incredible accomplishment. Better yet, it's a reason to celebrate.

We often forget to celebrate our achievements, big or small, because we are too focused on the next challenge or goal. We overlook the progress we have made, which diminishes the value of our hard work. But you, my friend, are worth celebrating. Your strength, resilience, and ability to persevere through the darkest of times is remarkable. You have come further than you ever thought possible, and that deserves recognition.

So take a moment to acknowledge how far you've come. Embrace the storms you survived, the mountains you climbed, and the obstacles you overcame. Celebrate the person you have become, the lessons you have learned, and the growth you have experienced. You are a walking testimony that holds the ability to triumph over adversity.

Remember that life is a journey, and the challenges you face along the way are what help shape you into the beautiful person you. You may not always realize how far you've come until you look back at where you've been, but when you do, it's magical. You realize that you made it through the storms you never thought you would survive, and you conquered mountains you once believed were impossible to climb. And that, my friend, is an extraordinary accomplishment.

Celebrate your journey, celebrate yourself, and never forget that you are worth being honored.

Love and be loved,

Trisha Sullivan 

Home is Where the Heart is: Finding Joy in the Holidays

Merry Christmas my lovely readers,

The holiday season is often depicted as a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness surrounded by loved ones. We see countless images of families gathering around a warmly lit tree, sharing meals and creating lasting memories. But what if you find yourself without family by your side during this time? What if you are building your own family from scratch and it feels like an empty holiday?

As a mother, I have come to realize the magical part of Christmas is spreading cheer and love to my own children. The joy in their eyes as they unwrap their gifts and engage in festive activities is truly heartwarming. I am grateful for the opportunity to create special moments for them, to build traditions that will carry on for years to come. But sometimes, despite the happiness I have within my own little family, there is a longing for something more.

I yearn for others to add joy and happiness to our family dynamic. I long for my home to be filled with laughter and the sounds of excited chatter. I want to gather around a table, playing board games and enjoying a delicious dinner. I want my heart to feel whole, knowing that the holiday spirit is not confined to our small unit but shared with others. It is in these moments of solitude that I realize the importance of family, both biological and chosen.

Holidays are about making happiness and gratitude prevalent to the moment. It is about creating an atmosphere of love, warmth, and a sense of belonging. While I have been successful in infusing these elements into my immediate family, there is an undeniable void when extended family is absent. Memories of past celebrations flood my mind, reminding me of how that void was once filled with the presence of siblings, parents, and dear friends. This year, however, it feels different. My home feels solitary, lacking the boisterous energy that only a bustling group of loved ones can bring.

Yet, as I reflect on my feelings of longing, I realize there is still beauty to be found in this holiday season. Building a family from scratch means embracing the opportunity to start new traditions, to forge strong bonds with those around us who also long for connection during this time. It means creating a sense of belonging not only for my children but for myself as well. This realization helps me shift my perspective from one of emptiness to one of hope and potential.

Though my home may be less crowded, less noisy, it does not mean it is any less filled with love and joy. It is a reminder that family is not solely defined by blood relations, but by the bonds we create with the people we choose to surround ourselves with. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers can come together to form a support system, to fill the void that may exist during the holiday season.

So, while I may feel like I've missed the mark this year in terms of having a full house during the holidays, I am reminded that a solitary home is an opportunity for me to focus on the love and joy I can give and receive within my own family. I can still spread cheer, create special memories, and teach my children the importance of gratitude and giving back.

The holidays may not always look exactly as we imagined, and that's okay. It is through embracing change and finding joy in the present moment that we can truly make the most of this season. Let us remember that family comes in many forms and that building our own family, from scratch or not, is a journey filled with its own unique magic.

Love and be loved,

Trisha Sullivan 

Blurred Vision: A Poem

Hello lovely readers! I wanted to share this poem I wrote with you. I hope you enjoy!

Blurred Vision-

In shadows cast by the moon's soft glow,

A teardrop falls, the journey commences slow.

With each tear, my world begins to stir.

Vision altered, through the watery blur.

Like cascading rain, they distort my sight,

Transforming colors to hazy twilight.

Within my soul, are a multitude of words.

Thoughts unspoken, yearning to be heard.

A treasure chest of emotions, locked within.

The echoes of my spirit, too bright to be dimmed.

These words are my companions, yet they speak to none.

Their presence an isolation beneath the sun.

I long for an ear that will listen and esteem.

To unravel these tales, as if within a dream.

But loneliness calls, it’s a heavy cloak to bear.

For a heart that's filled with words, yet no one to share.

Echoes unvoiced reverberate in my core,

Aching for connection, an open door.

 I hold onto hope, though tears may obscure.

That this waiting, this pain, has a purpose to endure.

For in the depth of sorrow, I find strength that’s renewed.

A testament to resilience, born from what we go through.

So I'll embrace the tears, in the altered sight I see.

For they shape and define the person I'll come to be.

And as I keep waiting, I'll build my fortitude,

Knowing that the wait, the pain, will be understood.

Tears can cleanse, and words have power untold.

In their delicate dance, all truths shall unfold.

And when the moment comes, with words set free.

I'll find solace in the listener who waits for me.

Let the tears obscure my vision, let the loneliness reside.

In the depths of our longing, we shall not hide.

For the wait, though painful, simply trust it will reveal.

A connection so profound, only love can heal.

#LoveandBeLoved

Trisha Sullivan

The Healing Power of Emotions: Feel to Heal

Hello! If you are new here, welcome to my healing journey. I choose to write about the methods needed to emotionally overcome life's harmful moments and share my story along the way.❤️✨

We all encounter moments that leave a mark on our hearts, moments that require us to embark on a healing journey. This process often encompasses various stages, each carrying its own unique set of emotions. 

While it may be tempting to suppress these feelings or project them onto others, it is essential to understand the significance of processing and acknowledging these overwhelming emotions. When we embrace these feelings we start walking on a path of growth and self-discovery.

Recognizing that the road to healing is not linear is the initial step to unlocking the process. Being aware of this truth gives us the opportunity to be compassionate and patient with our feelings. Always remember, like fluids flow so do the state of our emotions.

Accepting the belief that we must “experience it to improve it” can be difficult. This means that we must face our feelings directly, even if they can be overwhelming. Nonetheless, by permitting ourselves to really go through these feelings, we make room inside us for a restoration to happen. When it comes to our emotions, keeping them down leads to stagnation, whereas real healing lies in recognizing them.

As we navigate the healing process, it becomes crucial to respond to these emotions in a manner that promotes personal accountability. Rather than projecting negativity onto others, we should embark on an introspective journey to understand why we react the way we do. This practice, often referred to as shadow work, unveils the hidden aspects of ourselves that contribute to our reactions. By shining a light on these shadows, we gain a deeper understanding of our behavior and empower ourselves to heal and grow.

Managing our emotions without projecting them onto other people can be a difficult challenge. We have to confront our insecurities, hurts, and anxieties directly. Nevertheless, this is essential for personal growth and healing. Being able to process our emotions internally allows us to accept accountability for our emotions and decisions, breaking any negative loops that impede our progress. When we confront our internal issues, we can better understand the origin of our reactions and make lasting changes.

The journey to a peaceful mind may not be an easy one, but it is a necessary one for us to bloom in the next chapter that awaits. By embracing the truth that feeling is an integral part of healing, we allow ourselves to embark on a transformative process. Through honoring our emotions, and taking responsibility for our behavior we become conscious architects for our own growth.

So, my fellow warrior, lets not run from the storm of emotions, but instead learn to dance in its rain. It is through feeling that we find our path to healing.

Love and be Loved.

Trisha Sullivan

Rising Above Financial Hardships: Your Soul Defines You, Not Your Struggles

In life, we are bound to face a variety of challenges, and often, financial struggles happen to be one of the toughest. The weight of financial burden can be overwhelming, impacting not only our bank accounts but also our sense of self-worth. However, it is crucial to remember that financial hardship does not define who we are as individuals. We must find strength in knowing that our soul and character are separate from our monetary circumstances.

In a society that associates wealth with success, those experiencing financial hardship often face shame and judgment. Friends and acquaintances may make assumptions or offer unsolicited advice, adding on to the stress already being carried. It's easy to feel trapped, burdened, and misunderstood, but it's important to remember that these struggles are merely temporary setbacks – not a reflection of who you are.

One of the most challenging aspects of financial struggle is the responsibility it places on our shoulders. Sometimes, through no fault of our own, we find ourselves trying to clean up a mess we didn't create. The pressure to provide for our loved ones, protect them from homelessness, and offer them stability can be tremendous. However, embracing this difficult task with resilience and determination can be transformative.

It is during times of financial hardship that our true character shines through. We learn about our strengths, resilience, and our ability to adapt and thrive in adverse situations. It is through these experiences that we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and discover new wells of strength that we never knew existed.

While navigating financial struggles, it is essential to focus on what truly matters in life – the intangible things that make us who we are. Our relationships, values, passions, and experiences have a far more profound impact on our well-being and sense of self than material wealth ever could. We must learn to value our inner qualities and let them guide us through adversity.

Remember, no matter how difficult the circumstances, it's crucial to keep going. Seek support from loved ones, friends, and organizations that can help you through these tough times. Financial struggles are not a measure of your worth or potential. They are simply a hurdle in your journey, teaching you valuable life lessons and strengthening your character.

Money problems can be a daunting experience that tests us both emotionally and mentally. However, it's essential to remember that our financial status does not define who we are as individuals. 

Our soul, character, and strength to persevere are far more significant than any temporary setback. The journey of overcoming financial struggles enables us to grow, learn, and develop an unbreakable spirit. So, stay hopeful, remain resilient, and keep moving forward, knowing that your soul is what defines you, not your financial circumstances.

Love and Be Loved,

Trisha Sullivan 

The Trauma Warrior

Discovering Harmony: Embracing Self-Growth and Love in Unison

Hello Trauma Warriors!

In a world where connections are fleeting and superficial, it becomes crucial to delve deep within ourselves and embark on a journey of healing. The process of self-discovery, understanding our past trauma, and seeking a partner who aligns with our spiritual path can be transformative. This blog post aims to explore the significance of self-knowledge and finding a like-minded partner, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and mutual respect.

Healing begins with knowing yourself. To truly heal and find peace, one must start by unraveling the layers of their own being. Understanding who you are, acknowledging your scars, and embracing your strengths are essential steps towards becoming whole. This process allows you to set the foundation for a healthy relationship.

We often underestimate the power of our intuition, brushing aside the faint whispers that guide us. However, when it comes to healing and choosing the right partner, listening to our inner voice becomes paramount. Intuition acts as a compass, warning us of potential mismatches or danger in relationships. Ignoring it may lead to triggering past traumas and plunging us back into a state of fight or flight.

As survivors of trauma, we must acknowledge that certain situations, words, or actions can evoke painful memories within us. Being in a relationship where our partner fails to understand these triggers can be detrimental to our healing journey. It is a courageous choice to prioritize our well-being by seeking a partner who can empathize, support, and navigate the effects of our past trauma with us.

Finding a like-minded person who respects boundaries and provides a sense of security can enlighten the healing experience. However, before diving into a relationship, it is essential to be comfortable with being alone. Embracing solitude allows us to cultivate self-love, strengthen our identity, and build resilience. It is through this process of self-discovery that we attract a partner who complements our growth, rather than defining it.

Healthy relationships thrive on mutual respect, and boundaries play a pivotal role in establishing it. It is essential to evaluate whether a potential partner has set their own boundaries and respects yours. Boundaries act as protective barriers, ensuring your emotional and physical well-being. Remember, respect is a two-way street; don't expect from others what you wouldn't be willing to offer yourself.

Embarking on a healing journey requires courage, self-reflection, and a commitment to prioritizing your well-being. Knowing who you are, listening to your intuition, and seeking a partner who understands and respects your trauma are vital aspects of finding wholeness. Remember, while healing takes time, the journey to self-discovery and finding a like-minded partner is worth every step. Embrace your healing, set boundaries, and never settle for anything less than the love and respect you deserve.

Love and Be Loved,

Trisha Sullivan

Rising Above- My Journey Through Trauma

Hello Everyone! 

My name is Trisha and I'm the author of this blog. I wanted to include this section to tell you about my history and how this journey of mine began.

I'd like to thank you for taking the time to read my healing journey- as I hope it can inspire you to start your own or help those who have already begun. 

#Love&BeLoved

January 17th, 1995 I was born in Portland, Oregon. My mother Angela was 15 and my father Jason 17. 

Before I start talking about how my appearance into the world changed things, I'll talk a bit about what life was like before I was born.

Jason and Angela were the cutest-looking couple. Many of their friends envied the family they had began to build. But- there was much more to the story than what was meeting the eye. 

For starters, I was a planned teen pregnancy.

My parents had gotten pregnant before me and miscarried. This was devastating for the reality they had started to build already, so they decided to plan for me.

Throughout my mother's pregnancy, she dealt with many of life's stressful moments. My father had problems with his anger/substance abuse, and this effected the nature of their relationship.

For the first three months of infancy, I lived in my grandmother's home with my mom and dad. My father had trouble with his temper and drug usage, and my mother was caught in a hostile situation with her own trauma/ abusive relationship developed with him.  

*(TRAUMA WARNING)* This next paragraph contains child abuse description-

When I was 6 weeks old I was burnt by a bottle, at 3 months old I had 3rd degree burns on my body from bathwater, and at 6 months old I was taken to the hospital because I wouldn't lift my arm. X-rays were done and multiple breaks were presented. This was my entrance into the foster system.

For the first few years of my life, I moved from one place to another. Family visits between my mother and grandparents would be arranged. However, I was strictly not to have any contact with my father up until my adoption was declared final.

At the age of three and a half, I was adopted by my biological grandmother on my father's side. My grandma had struggles with her health, and she had verbally abusive tendencies that made life no less challenging.

 As I grew older, I witnessed the hardships caused by my father's imprisonment due to drugs, violence, and alcoholism. 

My mother's path stumbled very dark for a while after I was taken away. She had to fight many of her own demons to become who she is today. 

As history likes to repeat itself, at the young age of 16 I became a teen parent myself, facing the responsibility of raising a child with the little guidance I had received. I navigated my way through life, learning valuable lessons, and sometimes taking hard losses.

The absence of a stable family led me toward drug addiction. In fact, mine literally handed me the pipe.  Despite this, I found my way out of the grip of substance abuse. I wanted better than the life I had to live for the past 18 years.

I experienced the devastating loss of many close friends, who were taken far too soon... Whether it was suicide, car accidents or drug overdoses. These tragedies deeply impacted me and shaped my perspective on life. 

Grief became a constant companion on my journey, a heavy burden that I carried with me. Eventually, I chose to channel my pain into understanding and appreciating the fragility of life. I realized that every day is a gift, and it is essential to make the most of it. 

These experiences have taught me the importance of treasuring the relationships I have and cherishing every moment, for we never know when it may be our last.

 

While grief continues to be a part of my life, it has also become a catalyst for healing and personal growth, reminding me to live with gratitude and compassion towards others.

Over the years, I have encountered numerous obstacles, including abusive relationships, failed marriages, addiction, depression, and the dysfunction within my own family. Rather than giving in to the difficulties, I have chosen to escape from the damaging cycles that have affected my life.

My story is not one of defeat, but rather a tale of resilience and triumph. I have fought against the odds and have emerged stronger, determined to create a better future for myself and my children. Through therapy, self-reflection, and a commitment to personal growth, I am steadily breaking free from the chains that once held me captive.

Today, I stand as a testament to the power and ability to overcome adversity. By sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire others who may be trapped in a similar situation. Life may have dealt me a challenging hand, but I refuse to let it define me. I am determined to forge my own path, one that is free from the pain and dysfunction of my past.

I look forward to sharing more stories with you.

-Love & Be Loved 

Trisha Sullivan

How Your Past Shapes Your Future

Hey friends,

Today, I want to discuss a serious and often unrecognized issue that affects many individuals: the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on physical health. The ACE screen test is a powerful tool that allows us to better understand how childhood trauma can have long-lasting effects on our bodies.

Childhood trauma can take many forms, such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. It's heartbreaking to think about the pain and suffering that some of us have endured during our formative years. Sadly, studies have shown that these experiences can significantly affect our physical and mental health later in life.

The ACE screen test, consisting of ten questions, helps to assess the level of exposure to traumatic experiences during childhood. It has provided us with valuable insights into the link between ACEs and physical health problems. Heart disease, obesity, and diabetes are just a few examples of the issues that individuals with high ACE scores are at a heightened risk for. It's not only the trauma itself but also the unhealthy coping mechanisms, like smoking and substance abuse, that can further deteriorate our physical well-being.

What's even more concerning is that the effects of childhood trauma can be long-lasting and cumulative. Those who experience ongoing trauma throughout their childhood are more likely to suffer from poor physical health outcomes. The weight of these experiences can take a toll on our bodies, leading to chronic stress and inflammation, which contribute to a range of health problems.

Furthermore, I personally have a high ACE score and have struggled with many of these unhealthy coping mechanisms myself. However, I firmly believe that through grounding and self-regulation, we have the power to teach ourselves how to rewire these patterns and thought processes in our brain. It's important to recognize that we aren't broken; rather, we were raised in a broken environment. As we navigate the challenges of the real world, it often feels like things are moving too quickly, and we may not have a safe place. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that we have the ability to create the safety and security we need within ourselves.

However, it's essential to remember that there is hope and healing on this journey. The ACE screen test has illuminated the importance of early intervention and healing for individuals who have experienced childhood trauma. Research shows that, even if the trauma occurred many years ago, healing can make a significant difference in our physical and mental health outcomes. By addressing these issues early and promoting healing, we can lessen the risk of physical health problems and improve our overall well-being.

To anyone who has experienced childhood trauma, I want you to know that you're not alone. It's not your fault, and healing is possible. Reach out to supportive individuals, seek professional help, and embrace the power of healing. Your well-being matters, and you deserve to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Let's come together as a community to raise awareness, support one another, and work towards creating a world where childhood trauma no longer limits our physical health and potential. We can overcome adversity and thrive! If you have any questions for me or stories you'd like to share about your journey leave a comment. You are as big of an inspiration to my story as I may be to yours.

Sending love and strength to all those who need it, 💗🤟🏼✨

Trisha Sullivan

The Power of No: Overcoming Misconceptions and Setting Boundaries

Written By: Trisha Sullivan

    In my last blog post, I asked my readers a question about misconceptions. Today, I want to talk about one of those misconceptions in more detail: the idea that people who are healing give off an air of superiority.

    This couldn’t be further from the truth. We should all be striving for better, but sometimes we get too caught up in trying to help others heal. It’s not our job to do the work for them, and we shouldn’t try to portray ourselves as better than anyone else. Instead, we should acknowledge that we’re all broken and work together to fix ourselves.

    I’ve struggled with being a “fixer” my whole life, focusing too much on other people’s problems instead of my own. But through self-care, I’ve learned that healing starts with yourself. It’s important to take care of your own needs and make sure you’re in a good place before trying to help others.

    Self-care can take many forms: meditation, exercise, therapy, or simply taking time for yourself. Whatever it looks like for you, it’s crucial to prioritize it. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to help others.

    My therapist once told me that you’ll know you’re on the right path to healing when you start setting boundaries for yourself. This can feel uneasy at first, especially if you’ve always been a people-pleaser. But it’s important to remember that setting boundaries is an act of self-love.

    When you start to set boundaries, people may not be happy with you. They may not like that you’re no longer putting their needs ahead of your own. But that's okay. You’re not responsible for their happiness, and it’s not your job to make them feel comfortable. It’s such an important part of self-care and healing, but it can also be one of the hardest things to do. When you’re used to putting everyone else’s needs before your own, it can feel uncomfortable to start prioritizing yourself. But I want to encourage you to do it anyway, because it’s truly one of the most loving things you can do for yourself.

    When I first started learning about self-care and setting boundaries, I was terrified. I had always been the type of person who would do anything for anyone, even if it meant sacrificing my own needs and well-being. I thought that was what it meant to be a good person, to put others first. But the truth is, that’s not sustainable. Eventually, you’ll burn out. You’ll start to resent the people you’re helping because you’re neglecting your own needs. And worst of all, you’ll start to lose yourself.

    That’s where setting boundaries comes in. It’s not about being selfish or uncaring. It’s about recognizing that you have needs too, and that it’s okay to prioritize them. It’s about saying no to things that don’t serve you, and yes to things that do. It’s about creating a life that feels good to you, instead of constantly trying to please others.

    But here’s the thing- setting boundaries is hard. It’s uncomfortable. It can feel like you’re letting people down, or like you’re not doing enough. And sometimes, people won’t like it. They’ll push back, or they’ll get angry, or they’ll try to guilt you into changing your mind. And that’s where it gets really difficult because you have to stay strong in your convictions.

    But I promise you, it’s worth it. It’s worth the discomfort, the fear, the uncertainty. Because when you start setting boundaries, you’re telling the world that you matter. You’re telling yourself that you matter. You’re taking a stand for your own well-being, and that’s incredibly powerful.

    It can be difficult when you’re with someone who doesn’t understand your traumas and you feel like you’re stuck in the same cycle of fight or flight. It’s important to remember that healing is a personal journey, and sometimes your partner won’t be able to provide the support you need. If you’ve expressed that their actions are hurting you and they don’t see an issue with their behavior, it’s okay to walk away. You aren’t broken, you just need understanding and support from someone who is willing to put in the work. Don’t let your partner’s lack of understanding keep you from healing and growing. You deserve to be with someone who uplifts and supports you on your journey.

    So, if you’re feeling uneasy about setting boundaries, know that you’re not alone. It’s a difficult thing to do, but it’s also one of the most loving things you can do for yourself. And if you need support or encouragement along the way, I’m here for you. Because you matter, and your needs matter, and you deserve to live a life that feels good to you. Remember that you are worthy of love, respect, and care. Setting those boundaries is a powerful way to honor that truth. Keep taking small steps, and know that with time and practice, it will get easier. I believe in you!

    In conclusion, we should all strive for better, but we shouldn’t try to do it at the expense of others. Healing starts with yourself, and it’s important to prioritize self-care. We’re all broken, and that’s okay. By working together and supporting each other, we can all become our best selves. Remember that setting boundaries is an act of self-love and an important part of the healing process.

Chat With Me! 😊💭

Answer one of these questions in the comments or share your personal thoughts with me:

💭-How do you handle situations where someone’s misconceptions or lack of understanding is causing you harm?

💻📢💭-How do you typically respond when someone makes assumptions about you or your experiences? What are some ways you’ve found to correct these assumptions?

💑💭-Have you ever had to set a boundary with someone you care about? How did you navigate that relationship moving forward?

💲✌💭-How can we create a culture that values and respects boundaries and encourages open and honest communication?

⏳😨❌💭-How do you teach your children about setting boundaries and recognizing when someone is overstepping them?

😡😭😂💭-What are some common misconceptions about parenting that you’ve encountered? How have you addressed them?

💞🌱🌈💭-How can we better educate parents and caregivers about the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing misconceptions to create a safer, healthier environment for children?

I can't wait to hear from you- Trisha S.

My Harsh Reality

 My Harsh Reality

By: Trisha Sullivan

    For years, I lived in a state of fight or flight. Unhealed trauma caused me to seek out the wrong partners time and time again, causing deeper trauma over the years. I found myself reaching for every form of self-medication and substance abuse early in life, and depression, anxiety, and PTSD came to live within me. I was stuck in a cycle of pain and suffering, and I didn’t know how to break free.

    But one day, I realized that I wanted better for my children. I knew I needed to take control of my life and start healing from the trauma that had been holding me back for so long. And so, I began what I call my “harsh reality.”

    Tackling my coping skills was not easy. It required me to face some of my past's most difficult and painful parts head-on. But I knew it was necessary if I wanted to live a truly fulfilling and meaningful life.

    One of the most significant struggles I faced was becoming a single mom at the age of 16. I was still a child myself and had no idea how to raise a child. I felt alone, scared, and overwhelmed. I had to learn how to be a mom while also dealing with my own trauma and mental health struggles.

    Despite the challenges, becoming a mother was also a turning point for me. It gave me a sense of purpose and a reason to keep fighting. I made a lot of mistakes along the way, but I also learned a lot. I learned how to be resilient, how to ask for help, and how to prioritize my child’s needs over my own. I also learned the importance of self-care and how taking care of myself was essential to being a good mom.

    Over time, I’ve learned that healing is not a linear process. There are good days and bad days, and some days it feels like I’m back at square one. But I’ve also learned that it’s okay to take things one day at a time and to be gentle with myself along the way.

    Through my journey, I’ve learned that healing is possible. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. And I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to start their own journey toward restoration and self-discovery.

    I hope this glimpse into my journey has been helpful to you. I plan on sharing more of my story soon, so stay tuned for updates. Remember, it's never too late to start your own path to a better you.

Let’s Chat! Answer one of these questions in the comments or leave your own feedback on this topic.

- I’m curious to know what your biggest takeaway from this post is. What resonated with you the most?

- What do you think are some common misconceptions about healing and self-discovery? How can we work to break down those barriers?

- If you could give one piece of advice to someone who is struggling to heal, what would it be?