When I started my healing journey, I asked God to make me unrecognizable to people who weren’t meant for me. It was an interesting prayer because, for a while, I felt invisible. As someone who had always sought attention, I found it hard initially. But it allowed me the time I needed to address myself.
If you knew me in the past, you knew my trauma—not me. I feel brand new today, but that doesn’t mean the journey was easy or linear. Healing looks different for everyone, and no two paths are exactly alike.
For me, the turning point that initiated my healing journey was leaving an abusive relationship, followed by the passing of my mother. My mental health took a turn during COVID-19, which prompted me to seek therapy. That opened up a lot of unprocessed trauma that had been influencing my reactions and relationships. When I got pregnant with my son, it initiated another layer of healing. Healing is now a daily part of my life.
Here are some reflections on my journey and what I’ve learned:
1. What made the most significant difference in my healing?
God. There is a lot in my story that I’m not proud of—some because of my own actions, others because of the actions of others. Guilt and shame followed me intensely, and I had to learn who God says I am to overcome those feelings. I remind myself daily that Jesus already paid it all for me, so I don’t have to engage with thoughts of guilt and shame anymore. I let them float away like clouds when they arise—something I practice intentionally.
2. What has been the most challenging part of healing?
One of the biggest challenges was realizing that the personality I thought was set in stone was shaped by my trauma. Understanding boundaries and their importance was also a huge hurdle. I’ve always been a people pleaser, so learning to set limits to protect myself initially felt unnatural.
3. How do I cope when healing feels slow?
Healing isn’t linear, and I remind myself there’s no rush during slower seasons. Those periods often mean there’s something profound that needs time and attention. Slowing down helps me address it more fully.
4. How do I handle triggers now?
I’m getting better at it, though I still have moments where I react before recognizing I’m triggered. When I am aware, I step away, breathe deeply, and ask God to guide me through the moment. Feeling the sun on my face or getting fresh air also helps ground me.
5. What advice would I give to someone starting their healing journey?
Don’t isolate. I know you may feel like a burden, but you’re not. We aren’t made to do life alone, and healing isn’t something you can do in isolation. Find your tribe—family, friends, a faith community, or a support group.
6. What has been the role of community?
My community has played a massive role in my healing. In the past, I tried to heal alone, and it didn’t work. Having the right people around me has made all the difference.
7. How do I navigate moments of overwhelm?
For me, slowing down is vital. When my brain speeds up, or I feel consumed by trauma, I pause, focus on my breath, and remind myself to take it one step at a time.
Healing is personal, and every step forward—no matter how small—is progress. Whether journaling for five minutes, taking a deep breath, or acknowledging your feelings, those moments matter.
I’d love to hear from you—whether you’re just beginning or progressing in your journey. What challenges have you faced? What insights have helped you heal? Your story or advice could be exactly what someone else needs to hear today. Comment or share your story below—I’m here to listen and support you.
Whatever keeps you grounded—whether it’s faith, meditation, or another practice—lean into it. And remember: healing looks different for everyone, and that’s okay.
Thank you for being here, reading, and being part of this journey with me. You’re not alone in this. We’re all walking through this healing process together, and I’m here to walk with you.