This Is How Your Abuse Taught Me To Love Myself

You may have reveled in the fact that you deceived me and took advantage of me. You probably do not care about me and ultimately you tried to destroy the very essence of who I am as a human being. While these facts may be true, you did not push me the way you intended. In actuality, I have learned to love myself and appreciate my life more. I hold my loved ones closer and I am kinder to them.

Essentially, you did not break me. You also did not make me a better person.

I finally re-discovered what I had within me all along. I am strong, kind, honest, and a beautiful person. I will not allow you to take that away from me.

You lost a wonderful partner and you will have to deal with that for the rest of your life.

I have also learned that I am empathic. I can actually feel when people want to hurt me, so I slam the door on them when they try. It is a way to protect myself. It is not selfish like you once called me. You are fully aware of all I did to help you, but you chose a different path in life.

I fully intend on advocating for others who have been in my position. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to do that in my current career already.

To put it simply, I will not let anyone stop me from standing up for what is right. I will celebrate my independence.

I feel like I can finally use my voice for a wonderful cause and regain my peace simultaneously.

As survivors of abuse, we can heal from this trauma. When you feel like giving up, keep moving forward. I am proof that there is a light at the end of the darkness you experienced. This journey is anything but easy. Just remember that YOU are worth it and no one should be allowed to diminish your happiness.