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 

Embracing 2024: A Journey of Growth, Connection, and Inward Reflection

As the clock struck midnight and the fireworks echoed through the night air, I found myself contemplating the significance of the new year. For so long, resolutions seemed like empty promises, easily forgotten as the days passed by. However, this year, I decided it was time to set obtainable goals that would shape my life in meaningful ways.

Among the multitude of aspirations that flickered in my mind, I knew building up my blog followers had to be near the top of my list. Writing has always been a form of therapy for me, but now, it's time for my words to bloom like a flower, captivating and connecting souls that resonate with my message. Together, we form an unbreakable tribe, a community bound by shared experiences and a unified desire for growth.

Yet, connection goes beyond the virtual realm. This year, I yearn to build unbreakable connections in the physical world, too. In a society consumed by surface-level interactions, true genuine connections have become rare gems. I want to foster meaningful relationships, cultivating deep-rooted friendships that remind us of the beauty in human connection and the strength it brings.

While nourishing relationships with others is vital, I also strive to nurture my body and mind. It's time to embark on a journey towards self-improvement, pushing past the boundaries of comfort and complacency. I yearn for cognitive clarity, aiming to decalcify my pineal gland for enhanced focus and awareness. By prioritizing self-care and exploring various wellness practices, I hope to awaken my mind, body, and soul to their fullest potential.

Stepping into this new year, I can't help but reflect on the past five years I've spent in the same house, surrounded by memories that elicit mixed emotions within me. Moving forward, I crave a fresh start, breathing new life into my surroundings and embracing the possibility of new beginnings. Creating a haven for my children, providing them with the dreams I never had the opportunity to live as a child, becomes a steadfast motivation for the path that lies ahead.

In 2024, every moment will be cherished and utilized to its fullest potential. I am determined to shift the perspective on what it means to build a life from the ground up. Life's endeavors are not defined solely by our successes but rather, how we rise from rock bottom. 

It is through resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in ourselves that we truly reach the summit we envision.

As the tides of time carry us further into this new year, let us hold onto our aspirations, pursuing our goals with unwavering dedication. May we build connections that transcend boundaries, nurture our minds, bodies, and souls, and embrace the power of fresh beginnings. 

Together, let us transform our lives and leave an indelible mark on the world in 2024 and beyond.

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

Avoiding Vulnerability At All Costs

Hey there Trauma Warriors,

Living with PTSD can be an incredibly challenging journey, and one of the hurdles that many individuals face is the difficulty of being vulnerable. The experiences of trauma can often lead to a heightened sense of self-protection, making it harder to open up and share emotions with others. However, it's important to remember that vulnerability is not a weakness, but rather a courageous act of self-expression.

For those with PTSD, the fear of judgment, rejection, or triggering painful memories can make it even more challenging to let their guard down. The healing journey can feel overwhelming at times, as if the world is against you. But it's crucial to understand that vulnerability is an essential part of the healing process. It allows us to connect with others on a deeper level and fosters a sense of understanding and empathy.

So, how can we open our hearts to vulnerability while still protecting our emotions? It starts with creating a safe and supportive environment for ourselves. This means setting healthy boundaries, both with ourselves and with others. It's about finding a balance between sharing our experiences and protecting our emotional well-being. By practicing self-care and seeking support from trusted individuals, we can navigate the healing journey with more resilience and strength.

While vulnerability may feel daunting, it's important to remember that it's a personal choice. Opening up about our experiences and emotions should only happen when we feel ready and safe to do so. It's okay to take small steps and gradually build trust with others. Surrounding ourselves with a supportive network of friends, family, or even a therapist can provide the encouragement and understanding needed to embrace vulnerability.

Another way to foster vulnerability while protecting our emotions is through self-reflection and self-compassion. Taking the time to understand our own triggers and boundaries allows us to communicate them effectively to others. By practicing self-compassion, we can give ourselves permission to be vulnerable without judgment or self-criticism. Remember, vulnerability is not about being perfect; it's about being authentic and true to ourselves.

It's crucial to celebrate the small victories along our healing journey. Each time we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we are taking a step towards growth and resilience. Acknowledge the courage it takes to share our experiences and emotions, and to be proud of the progress made. By embracing this, we create space for healing, connection, and ultimately, a more fulfilling life.

The healing journey for individuals with PTSD may feel challenging, but it doesn't have to be a lonely battle. By understanding why vulnerability can be difficult and learning how to protect our emotions, we can navigate the healing journey with more grace and self-compassion. 

Remember, vulnerability is a strength move, and it allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. So, let's open our hearts, embrace vulnerability, and support each other along the way. And remember, you're doing an amazing job!

Love and be loved-

Trisha Sullivan

The Trauma Warrior 

The Power of Self-Love, Self-Awareness, and Healing Deep Wounds

In our hectic lives, it can be easy to overlook the significance of self-care, understanding, and tending to the wounds that lie deep inside of us. We often focus so heavily on outward successes and connecting with other people that we forget the most essential bond of all - the one we have with ourselves. If we look more closely at our triggers, and treat them as chances to learn more about ourselves and to heal, then we can begin a life-altering voyage of self-awareness and self-approval.

Sometimes we may have a strong reaction to certain circumstances or the actions of people around us. The emotions of anger, frustration, and sadness that often appear are not happening without any cause or purpose though; they are often triggered by something.. These are signs that there are still emotional hurts from our past that have not been dealt with. Instead of dismissing or suppressing these triggers, we can choose to view them as opportunities to peel back the layers of our being and face our hidden pain head-on.

The act of self-awareness is crucial in this process. It requires us to willingly examine our emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns without judgment or criticism. When we sense a trigger, we can take a step back and look at our response with interest instead of getting stuck in a reaction. This gives us the chance to uncover the source of our triggers, and start to heal old emotional injuries that have been around for too long.

Exploring the depth of our inner selves can reveal a tapestry of past experiences, traumatic events, and unfulfilled needs. Perhaps it is the sting of rejection, the pain of abandonment, or the echoes of neglect that still reverberates through our present-day lives. These wounds might've been tucked away, hidden from our conscious awareness, but their impact can be felt in how we navigate relationships, our self-image, and the choices we make.

Self-love is an essential part of the recovery process. It involves showing ourselves kindness, sympathy, and acceptance as we grapple with our wounds. It is important to remember that our experiences do not define us; rather, it is the strength we show in facing and overcoming them that does. By cultivating self-love, we can recognize our inherent value and understand that we are worthy of healing, flourishing, and being released from the overwhelming burden of unresolved suffering.

As we take this road of exploration and recovery, we should be aware that it may not always be a smooth ride. Bringing our pain to the surface can be disorienting, and the healing process can be trying. However, by embracing this path, we open ourselves to a life of deeper connection, authenticity, and self-empowerment.

One powerful tool to aid in this process is seeking support from a therapist, counselor, or coach who specializes in guiding individuals through their healing journey. These professionals can provide a safe space for us to explore our triggers, process our emotions, and facilitate our growth.

By surrounding yourself with self-love, self-awareness, and a want for healing, we embark on a journey of transformation. We learn to turn our triggers into catalysts for growth and self-understanding. By diving deep within ourselves, we can break free from the chains that hold us to past pain and emerge as individuals who are more aware, compassionate, and resilient.

Remember, you are worthy of the love and healing you seek. Find comfort in the opportunity to embark on this profound journey. Watch as the wounds you may not even know you had begin to heal, and how your life unfolds with authenticity and joy.

Love and be loved,

Trisha Sullivan

The Trauma Warrior