Once your loved one is safe from a traumatizing or potentially abusive situation, the waters ahead may seem smooth. However, there may be more storms for your loved one to bear shortly. Healing from past traumas has its own set of challenges. One challenge, for example, is that your loved one may not even realize how their past experiences are affecting them, and are unable to articulate these effects to you.
Tag: abuse
When Art is Your Love Language
When I'm so happy and satisfied and moved and full of love about something or someone, I make art about it. I write poetry or love letters. I paint. I create little cartoon portraits on internet apps. As children and still as adults, long afternoons and evenings were spent with my brother and sister, reaching … Continue reading When Art is Your Love Language
Staying Estranged in a Global Pandemic
When Coronavirus made it to the United States, I worried about my dad. He’s a lifelong smoker over 60. But I haven’t checked on him, because my sister and I haven’t spoken to him in over a year. That time has been uneventful, besides us each getting a message from him on Thanksgiving. I thought … Continue reading Staying Estranged in a Global Pandemic
An Open Letter to the Person Who Isn’t Ready to Leave
Do you suspect that there's something amiss in your relationship? Whether it's with a romantic partner or a friend or a family member, it doesn't matter. But something feels wrong and you think maybe if you had better boundaries or could stand up for yourself this wouldn't be happening. You might be wondering if you … Continue reading An Open Letter to the Person Who Isn’t Ready to Leave
A breakup doesn’t mean you failed
When you're deeply committed to someone, the end of that relationship can be devastating. Whether it's a romantic relationship, friendship, or even removing a family member from your life -- breaking up is hard. But it doesn't mean you've failed at anything. I reject the notion that a relationship that doesn't last a lifetime is … Continue reading A breakup doesn’t mean you failed
