Unmasking Healing: A Journey to Authenticity

I recall a time in my life when it felt like everything was falling apart. My mother was battling cancer, my responsibilities were overwhelming, and I was wearing a mask, pretending to be someone I wasn't. I was attempting to endure an unnamed pain. When my mother passed away, I felt broken and done. I was finished with pretending to be someone I wasn't, and it was time to rediscover who I truly was.

A dear friend opened a door for me, connecting me with a gentle therapist who understood me. When we summon the courage to let our vulnerable, fractured parts be seen and held with compassion by another, and when we trust in something greater than ourselves to create that safe container, miracles can unfold. As my trust in this person grew, she asked if I'd be willing to participate in group sessions.

I hesitated, feeling safer with just her. She leaned in and acknowledged, "Yes, I understand that you feel safer with me, and that's perfectly okay. When you're ready, would you consider exploring group sessions?"

To be met right where I was at felt liberating. The thought of being seen in a group was simultaneously terrifying. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to take your time. There's no rush, no need for pressure. You can start by trusting your own inner sense of life. Find one person you begin to trust and return to them whenever you feel a rupture inside. It will help strengthen the pathways that allow you to trust and create a bedrock you can rely on.

Notice your fear: "I'm afraid to share transparently because I'm afraid of what will happen." Find one place where you can name this fear and observe how your body reacts when met with compassion and understanding. Focus more on this place, on the small steps you've taken. Recognize that they've made a difference. Breathe into it and notice how your body responds.

Take one small step at a time, especially when it comes to holding the parts of you that have felt hopeless and helpless. These experiences are learned, often from our environments, and they're never intentional. There are people who understand this and create space for it. Dare to reach out and find them. Choose to trust that something greater than yourself is with you on this life journey.

Thank you for sharing this journey with me. Healing You. 💖