Empowering Yourself: The Journey Beyond Seeking Saviors
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Chapter 1: The Illusion of Saviors
No one can rescue you from your struggles. There’s an old saying that goes, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink."
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It's time to stop searching for a savior!
For a significant portion of my life, I held the misguided belief that I needed someone else to save me. It’s true that many people thrive when they receive love and acceptance, leading them to become healthy adults with proper self-esteem. Yet, I was on a quest for someone to rescue me.
Despite the well-intentioned efforts of those around me, I often failed to appreciate their support, inadvertently dragging them down with my struggles. Many individuals extended their hands, pretending to care, but their underlying desire was often to exert control over me.
The world is filled with troubled individuals.
Some reach that state due to unmet needs, while for others, it’s simply a part of who they choose to be. For a long time, I fell into a pattern of self-sabotage, torn between needing help and only recognizing it from those with hidden agendas.
What shifted for me?
Fortunately, I possess the ability to reflect on my experiences. If it weren't for that, I can't imagine where I’d be now. Many toxic individuals I encountered had unresolved trauma. I recognized this pattern early on, observing it almost daily among certain peers from my upbringing. While they offered excuses for their behavior, I was still able to perceive their true intentions. They understood the roots of their low self-esteem and persistent stress but lacked the determination to address it.
Imagine how much better their lives could have been had they taken charge of their own healing!
Now, with some distance from those experiences, I am beginning the healing process that includes forgiveness. However, returning to my original point: there are no saviors, but there are ways to foster your own healing with the support of others.
Section 1.1: Recognizing Healers in Your Life
The first step is to acknowledge that there are many healers in this world who genuinely wish the best for you. Being a healer doesn’t require perfection, and it’s important not to expect that from anyone. I’ve been labeled a healer too, but I have my flaws, especially when provoked! Ultimately, I’m just an individual navigating a complex world, where some people wear masks of kindness while others reveal their true nature.
Once I determine that someone is trustworthy, our relationship transforms into one of mutual respect and kindness.
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Embrace the notion that you deserve kindness. Cultivating gratitude is essential.
Section 1.2: Each Day is a Fresh Start
The second point to remember is that every day offers a new beginning!
While you may not change past decisions, you have the power to influence the future through your current choices. The present moment is your response to previous actions, and recognizing how your current decisions shape your future will guide you toward your desired path.
Chapter 2: Transforming Trauma into Growth
The Beatles - I Want To Hold Your Hand - Performed Live On The Ed Sullivan Show 2/9/64
This iconic performance by The Beatles captures the essence of youthful exuberance and connection, reminding us of the power of love and support.
I Want To Hold Your Hand (Remastered 2015) - YouTube
This remastered version showcases the timeless quality of The Beatles' music and its enduring relevance in our lives.
The third insight is that our experiences of trauma can indeed be transformed into opportunities for growth.
I’ve faced various hardships, including violent assaults, homelessness, and addiction. While each was difficult to endure, they opened pathways to compassion and allowed me to be kinder to myself. Without these challenges, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.
If given the choice to become a better person through overcoming trauma, I would choose that path countless times over remaining stagnant and lacking empathy.
Conclusion: Embracing Change
Everything is transient. This too shall pass. Rather than viewing this as a somber thought, consider it a reminder that life and people ebb and flow. The only constants are your mindset and moral compass!
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Thank you!!