What we say to others matters but what we tell ourselves matters more. Words are powerful. I am a survivor of multiple forms of abuse. I am not a victim. I am a courageous survivor.
When I was a little girl, I was always told about ‘stranger danger”. As I have grown up, I’ve realized that for some people the monsters of the world are living under the same roof. As I have embarked on my journey to rewire my brain from the impacts of child abuse. I have realized the stigmas that many people have towards survivors of abuse. It has been a difficult journey to access safe places to “unpack” my trauma.
My healing journey started with a few compassionate people who gave me support, met me where I was in my messiness, and encouraged my desire for recovery. All survivors need one thing, someone to say “I believe you”.
I believe in the power of connection and giving a voice to all those who have experienced abuse in their lives. Survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault often live their lives in silence, but I firmly believe that to change the world, we must make conversations surrounding abuse and recovery part of our everyday conversations. There is freedom for survivors on the other side of being heard and believed.
