Rising From Darkness and Shame by Choosing Love Over Fear
In this Thriver Blog, Danielle Ratliff bravely shares her [...]
Breaking the Cycle of Generational Trauma
We resume Blanche G’s family’s journey toward healing, following [...]
Surviving Rape: A Family Perspective
Our guest author, Blanche G, shares how one family [...]
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Raising Awareness, Sharing Stories, Providing Resources
This month, communities and advocacy organizations are raising awareness [...]
Understanding the Impact of Sexual Abuse
Do you believe the world’s culture is desensitized to [...]
When the Holiday Season Is Difficult: Secrets and Seasons of the Journey
Holiday Seasons can be difficult. When you hear, “Secrets [...]
Releasing – Part of Healing Our Woundedness
“We are all wounded in some way. What we [...]
Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
At the beginning of the month we talked about how survivors of sexual abuse often create a comfort zone for themselves. Two different images were offered - that of wrapping yourself up with insulation like a blanket or forming a protective wall. It may also be a comfy nest that you don’t really want to leave, even when it’s time.
Let’s explore what a comfort zone might look like for you.
Comfort Zone and Growth
As sexual abuse survivors, we have had to create safety for ourselves. We experienced the unthinkable and now feeling vulnerable and/or out of control can be frightening and uncomfortable. For me, there were a number of layers I wrapped myself up to feel safe and secure.
Breaking the Cycle of Generational Trauma
Although it can be as quick as a few minutes, a traumatic event, such as sexual abuse, has harmful ripples that extend out decades and even generations. If the deeper struggles aren’t addressed, brought to light, and healed, each survivor will pass on the proclivity for poor choices and destructive relationships to the next generation. Sadly, I know this firsthand as my family has suffered multiple generations of trauma and sexual assault. Starting with my grandmother, and cascading down to most recently, my beloved daughter, the women in my lineage have been and are survivors.
