Awakening After Survival
Blog Series Part 1 - Life After Domestic Violence
It’s challenging to articulate the experience of living with a monster who professes love when you lack the necessary experience. This wasn’t my first encounter with any form of abuse; however, this situation was particularly intense and self-destructive for me. This time felt different. Despite my promise to never let another man harm or diminish me, it happened again, and this experience would change me forever. I found myself trapped in a cycle of confusion and self-doubt, questioning my worth and the choices that led me here. A small voice inside urged me to seek help and break free. It was a whisper at first, but it grew stronger with each passing day.
When I ended this relationship, I made a vow to myself that it would be my last for along time because i needed to make heaaling a priority and that I would seek help this time. I was tired of attracting this type of man into my life. This time felt different; beneath the physical assault that I had ignored while trying to move forward, something was brewing. I was about to discover how this would change my life. This time, I lost my confidence. For the first time in my life, I didn't recognize the person looking back at me in the mirror—I was a broken woman.But in that moment of brokenness, I also found a spark of determination flickering within me a small, yet persistent reminder that I was worthy of healing. So, I started on a journey of self-discovery, one that would lead me to reclaim my identity and rebuild my life from the ground up.
The journey of reclaiming my life began with small, deliberate steps. I started by setting boundaries and prioritizing my well-being. I learned to listen to my instincts and trust in my ability to make decisions that served my highest good. Slowly, I began to rebuild my confidence, piece by piece, as I embraced my right to live without fear or shame.
I began by seeking professional help, understanding that I couldn't navigate this path alone. Therapy and support groups became a sanctuary where I could unravel the tangled emotions and memories that had haunted me. It was a big step toward understanding my patterns and learning healthier ways to engage with myself and others.
I started to embrace activities that nourished my soul and reignited my passions, reconnecting with people, rebuilding relationships and creating new habits.Reconnecting with my body was another crucial part of my healing. I learned to listen to its needs through practices like yoga and meditation, which helped me release tension and cultivate a sense of peace. Gradually, I began to trust my instincts again, acknowledging that my body was a powerful ally in my journey toward wellness.
Through this process, I discovered a newfound resilience and strength. I realized that my past didn't define me; rather, it was a chapter in my story that had taught me invaluable lessons about courage, self-worth, and the importance of setting boundaries.
It taught me resilience and the power of self-love. I emerged from the shadows of abuse, determined to forge a new path defined by strength and authenticity. I realized that my past did not define me; rather, it shaped me into the person I was becoming—a person capable of thriving despite the scars.
The woman I see in the mirror now was no longer broken but was someone who had emerged from the depths of despair stronger and more compassionate than ever before. I was becoming someone who could not only survive but also thrive, creating a life filled with purpose, love, and authenticity.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that leaving an abusive relationship was a pivotal awakening. I was transitioning from survival to living, though I was uncertain about what that would look like. Each day brought me a little more power, clarity, and strength as I bid farewell to him and that chapter of my life.
In sharing my story, I hope to inspire others who may feel trapped in similar situations. There is hope beyond the pain, and there is a future where joy and peace are possible. Healing is not a destination but a journey, and with each step, I am reminded of the light that exists within me, ready to shine brighter than ever before.