You Have a Choice

Have you ever had a memory so stark in contrast to what you have been focused on that when it comes, it pulls the breath from you? Triggered memories sometimes haunt me, and when they do, there is no choice but to face them.

We tend to shy away from memories, which we believe are painful. They return at the most inopportune times by ignoring them, creating a storm of emotions that affect how we function in life.

The second half of my story is about domestic violence intertwined with child abuse. Because of the inner work I have been performing, I am strong enough to handle the memories. They can be looked at, dissected, understood, and embraced without fear this time. This process will hurt, but the beauty is, it's all temporary.

There are tools to safely unlock those memories, which, if we choose, we can safely process and begin to heal core wounds generating vivid images. After a triggered memory occurred last night regarding the abuse my children suffered, I will use those same tools to release the guilt and shame carried far too long, the shame which was never mine to carry.

Through self-regulating my emotions, processing triggered emotions becomes more manageable. Knowing the meaning behind each feeling is a choice, and being aware there is a choice is like a built-in safety net.

Processing the feelings through breathwork, journaling, and safe space of a healthy community's love and support worked to pull me through the darkest moments while releasing the pain of sexual abuse. Grounding, meditation, movement, and of course, compassion and understanding are only part of the tools this Spirit Warrior will continue to fight with for a better life.

As always, to be continued. I'll see you on the other side.

Growing with Love,
❤S