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dannicatwhiskers shared a letter in the
Mental Health group 2 years, 1 months ago
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Hannah G. shared a letter in the
Mental Health group 2 years, 1 months ago
A Letter to my Shame
It’s about to get personal here. You’ve been with me for way too long. You’ve torn down my self-confidence, you’ve creeped into the narratives that I tell myself, you have kept me grounded and not in a good way, but in a self-isolating way, you’ve even made a place for yourself in my beliefs. You have long outstayed your welcome and you need to leave now.
I was listening to a podcast recently on shame and I found the hosts definition of shame interesting. Shame was defined (on this podcast at least) as wanting to receive love, affection, and affirmation from someone, but not receiving that love in the presence of others. I remember one of my earliest memories of shame creeping in was in 4th grade. A classmate had quite a hatred towards me, though I don’t recall doing anything to her to make her hate me. Anyways, she put a death threat in my desk. I came to school that day and found it on top of my books and folders. The girl who wrote it came all too perfectly at the exact moment I found it, grabbed it out of my hands and ripped it up (a tactic she employed so she wouldn’t get in trouble). I decided to try and tell the teacher what happened, but without proof she didn’t believe me. I was depressed the whole day and she noticed and asked what was wrong and I told her again what had happened. But she didn’t believe me. I wanted and needed to hear the affirmation that it wasn’t my fault. That someone was on my side and that they were going to help me when this felt like too much for me to handle on my own. My younger self was forced to ask the question “why me?” And even though I understand now that hurt people hurt people, but I still ask “why?” 4th grade me thought the teacher would at least call my parents to let them know what had happened, but since she didn’t believe me she didn’t believe there was a reason to call my parents. Shame is what kept me from telling them. Shame thrives in secrecy and self-isolation.
It’s taken me years of hard work, therapy and tears to realize that a lot of the healing process includes grieving. I’ve realized that breaking up with you will be beneficial for me. One of my favorite pump up songs “Favorite Sound” by Echosmith says “[I] shouldn’t apologize for just existing…..shouldn’t apologize for just being me…….I’m learning how to turn around all the voices in my head I think I’ve found my favorite sound.” My favorite sound is me writing you this letter. My favorite sound is me unlearning all the lies you told me, like that I was unlovable and that there must be something wrong with me. My favorite sound is me learning that I am loveable after all. I’m learning the joy of just being me. I’m learning that I was not wrong, I was was just someone who had wrong done to them and didn’t know what to do. And I will continue putting the sound of self-love on replay over and over and over until it becomes natural for me.
But shame your soundtrack is being deleted. Hasta freaking la vista. Goodbye and good riddance shame. You don’t rule anymore.
Truthfully,
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Aww Hannah, this piece really pulled at my heart strings. I am sorry your classmate was so meaner and I am so sorry your teacher didn’t do what she should have done. But you are so sweet, and you are most certainly lovable. I always say, what people say to you about you says more about who they are than who you are… let go of any shame you feel.…read more
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This reminded me of the first time I experienced shame. It was the 2nd grade on the playground and a 5th grader told me to get off the monkey bars and before I could she punched me in the stomach. (Pretty hard too.) I never told anyone about it. I even held back my tears so the teachers wouldn’t ask questions. I’m not sure what I did to des…read more
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@mavisjohnson I’m so sorry that that happened to you. You did nothing to deserve that. I know that is easier said than to believe, but it is true. That 5th grader was probably hurting inside and didn’t know how to express the hurt they were feeling so it came out sideways and ended up hurting you in the process.
I am so proud of the steps…read more
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This is wonderful and I’m proud of you. You’ve shaken the chains that bogged you down, albeit not in a quick fashion but after all of the pain and realization came together you’ve gained the ability to tell your shame to go kick rocks. Thank you for sharing
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vanessaracquel submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your teenage self 2 years, 1 months ago
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amandawrites submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your teenage self 2 years, 1 months ago
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ashley submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your teenage self 2 years, 1 months ago
Ashley's Lullaby
Hush teenage Ashley please don’t cry if only you knew what your future looked like. I understand you feel lonely and unloved too but trust and believe that God has big plans for you. The emotional trials and tribulations that has constantly let you down is a required prerequisite to prove you are worthy for the crown. Sleepless nights and uncontrolled tears were the evidence of your frustration when no one was near. Later you will find out you were never alone, and God heard your secret prayers when you thought no one was home. To whom much is given certainly much is required so accept your circumstances as a badge of honor. The pain that you endure is meant to push you to your purpose and the anointing that’s on your life is strong enough to make hell nervous. So, in spite of the opposition that you have to face the blessings that lies ahead is your game winning check mate. So trust the process and no longer ask WHY YOU but ask WHO ARE YOU that your childhood had to be misty blue.
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Ashley, I truly believe the difficult things we go through in the moment can feel overwhelming, but in the end that leads us to who we are meant to be and what we are meant to do. You are so strong and resilient. Never change. I admire you. Thank you for sharing and thank you for being part of our Unsealed family. <3 Lauren
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Michelle shared a letter in the
Mental Health group 2 years, 1 months ago
Invisible bruises
I didn’t think it would be this hard. Accepting the diagnosis of *permanently disabled* The fact is, that I have a brain injury. An invisible injury that no one but myself knows about unless we strike up a conversation. What’s the hardest part? The depression. The untreatable with medication depression. The PTSD and the pains haunt me. When I see another woman my age, so beautiful and fit, so full of energy and life, sometimes I’m hit with grief. Why is that you might ask? The days for me lately have been divided out and measured by how much, or how little energy I have that morning waking up. If my body is screaming at me or being kind to me. It all depends. I proudly carry the badge of a domestic violence survivor, but inside my invisible bruises smother my light as the depression tries to take over. My Dr told me that I was beautifully broken. My heart and my brain agree. I just want to be free from the sadness. It feels impossible. Be “mindful” they say. As the tears pour down my face. I hold on for dear life these days riding the waves. Learning to live myself again, and nurturing my invisible bruises. 🩶
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Thank you so much for sharing your inner dialogue. I can’t imagine how difficult your life might be because of what you’ve been through. Being beautifully broken is something I’ve heard before. In china, if fine china is broken it’s mended back together with gold. Showing the beauty in imperfections and that it’s worth is still valuable. You may b…read more
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💜 Thank you so much for your word of encouragement. I appreciate you taking the time to write a little something to me. It feels a bit less lonely knowing that my words can be safe here.
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Hello Shelle, I understand the invisible illnesses all to well. The physical and the mental that came from first abuse and then MS. PTSD has calmed down as I work on regulating my nervous system and my physical ailments have changed significantly as I changed my life style. The memories of the abuse are still surfacing and I ride those waves as…read more
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This is a very beautiful and emotional letter. you’ve clearly been through hell and back yet you’re still here, besides the depression and PTSD you’re still here to share your story. Thank you for sharing your struggle.
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limabean140 submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your teenage self 2 years, 2 months ago
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limabean140 shared a letter in the
Race and Diversity group 2 years, 2 months ago
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artistphilly submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your teenage self 2 years, 2 months ago
Advice to My Teenage Self: Finding Purpose, Building Confidence, and Navigating Life's Challenges
Dear Younger Self,
I hope this letter finds you well. As you navigate through your teenage years, I want to share some advice that I wish I had known at your age.
First, I urge you to focus on finding your purpose in life. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day activities and distractions of teenage life, but it’s important to take some time to think about what you truly want to do with your life. When I was your age, I often felt lost and uncertain about my future. I wish I had taken the time to explore different career options and reflect on what really mattered to me. Once you find your purpose, commit to it and work hard to achieve your goals. This will give you direction, motivation, and a sense of fulfillment in life.
Second, I want to emphasize the importance of building your confidence. Without confidence, life can be a long and hard journey. I remember feeling insecure and doubting myself often during my teenage years. It’s important to work on believing in yourself and your abilities. Start by focusing on your strengths, being proud of who you are, and not letting anyone else’s opinions define you. With time and effort, you can build the confidence you need to achieve your dreams and navigate life’s challenges.
Third, relationships are important, but they should not be your main focus at this stage in your life. Take time to heal and mature before pursuing romantic relationships. I remember feeling pressure from peers to date and fit in during my teenage years, but looking back, I wish I had focused more on building strong friendships and nurturing my family relationships. These relationships will give you a support system and a sense of belonging that will be invaluable as you move through life.
Fourth, take care of your physical and mental health. Exercise regularly, eat well, and get enough sleep. I know that it’s easy to neglect your health when you’re busy with school, activities, and socializing, but taking care of yourself is essential to your well-being. When I was your age, I struggled with anxiety and depression, and I wish I had known the positive impact that exercise and self-care can have on mental health. Make time for yourself and engage in activities that make you happy.
Finally, learn how to communicate effectively with others. Good communication is essential in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to your career. Be an active listener, speak clearly and respectfully, and be willing to compromise when necessary. I remember feeling frustrated and misunderstood during my teenage years, and I wish I had learned better communication skills earlier. Practice communicating with your family, friends, and teachers, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help or clarification when needed.
In conclusion, remember that life is a journey, and it’s important to take care of yourself along the way. Keep these things in mind, and I know you will be successful in all that you do.
Sincerely,
Your Future SelfVoting is closed
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Rashan, This is very well-written and very wise, Each piece of advice you give to your younger self is something that we all need to hear and be reminded of from time to time. My favorite line of your piece comes at the end.
” Remember that life is a journey, and it’s important to take care of yourself along the way.”
It is so true, so real a…read more
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draperj submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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jazlinh submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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sirensong666 submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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zandrea submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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aastha submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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joliver15 submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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artiste submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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sdambrosio submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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lourdes submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
Dear Old me,
You’re in excruciating pain, scared and confused. That’s due to the multiple skull fractures. You will always be reminded of what happened because of the lifetime of pain you will endure, but you heal. Better than anyone could ever have imagined. Despite the amnesia, God will allow you to keep the memories you have made with your children. For this, you are grateful. Unfortunately, memories of that night are also something that stays with you, but you see it as a starting point from how far you’ve come. This is also something to be grateful for.
After he fractures your jaw, he uses pliers in an attempt to remove several of your teeth. He wanted a souvenir. God is with you when this happens, therefore he ends up with nothing. The dentist is the only one who collects a tooth several months later. It’s necessary for the healing process. In time, you will find yourself able to enjoy dinner with your children again.
You regain your hearing even though he ruptures both of your eardrums. God will allow you to hear your Autistic son speak his first words eventually. That’s when you’ll realize your life will be filled with miracles that have nothing to do with that night. This is when you stop counting your blessings and accept them in abundance.
It will take over a year for you to ovulate the way a woman should. That’s okay. Eventually the pain you experience due to the trauma inflicted to your uterus lessens. You’ll only be reminded of it when menstruating. At times, you’ll think about the little girl that you always wanted but push those thoughts aside when you remember how lucky you are to have two sons already.
It was rape. There is nothing that you could have done differently to change the events that unfolded that night. Be kinder to yourself. It will take years, but the nightmares will subside. You will no longer find yourself drenched in tears, awoken by your own screams. God will allow you to dream again.
You survive. Your mind, body and soul will be forever altered, but that’s okay. You will struggle with relearning everything you have forgotten, because of this, you will evolve into a different person. A better person. One who displays strength and compassion in all that she does. You will piece yourself back together and the broken in you will be your beauty.
God will allow you to heal. He will assure you that this happens through the love and bond you have with your children. They will repair you mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally. Remember to thank God for this in your prayers daily and thank your children by reciprocating the love they use to save you with. Love is all they have to give you; that’s all you will ever need to make it through another day.
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I am so very sorry to read what you went through. I am a survivor too. Your strength is incredible. He hurt your body but he didn’t damage your soul. Your kids are so lucky to have a mommy like you. You are not just a survivor you are fighter. The future you is so thankful the present you is so resilient. Keep healing. Keep loving yourself and…read more
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Thank you for your kind words. I’m sorry this happened to you as well. It’s been a long journey, the healing process. It took me a long time to make sense of my writing. The head injury set me back in so many ways. I submitted this as a entry because I may have read the contest topic in error. It was to my understanding that I could write to…read more
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Aww, the way you wrote it works! We did give multiple options on how to write it! Keep opening up and sharing your story. One day at a time. You’ll keep getting better. Thank you for being so brave. <3 Lauren
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You captured my attention instantly as a woman from abuse and of rape. My body bruised my insides torn and the shame that swallowed my being. You are an inspiration, an earth angel and yes you will heal because you have gratitude for every new day with your children. Goddess speed for you beauty.
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Thank you sweetheart,
It’s a shame an experience as such is the reason we cross paths, however I’m glad you took the time to read my letter. I appreciate you saying I’m an inspiration, as are you. It’s important to know this is something society experiences more than we care to speak of. Shame also suffocates me at times, so understand where you…read moreWrite me back Subscribe  or  log in to reply
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You are so strong. I’m so sorry that you went through that. Never let that define who you are. Your kids are so lucky to have a mother like you. Your strength is unwavering. Thank you for sharing.
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Oh. My heart is with you. I to am a survivor. The words of your pain stuck my soul. You are so strong. You are so brave. You are so beautiful. Thank you for sharing your deepest feelings here, in this very safe group. We are all here to help build one another up. To hold one another and to bring back the light for one another. 💜
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You’ve gone through so much. Physical pain and emotional trauma is such a hard thing to come to terms with. You are so strong and is a powerful role model. Thank you for sharing
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ameerahshabazz submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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kyladiane submitted a contest entry to
Write a letter to your future self 2 years, 2 months ago
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