A lot can happen when you tell your story.
Each time you do, your heart opens, your eyes see clearer, your voice gets stronger, and you stand a little taller. Each time gets easier and easier. And one day, that story won’t be just a story. It will be a learning experience, a story of triumph, and an inspiration for others who need it.
That’s what it’s been like to share my stories in my own life. And I was surprised at the reactions. Most people were supportive and kind. Many women burst out crying and told me that they or their mothers, sisters, or dear friends left unhealthy and abusive relationships. Some got out in time and others didn’t.
And then there were a few women who had different responses.
One of them said to me, “Did you even TRY to make things better? Did you even make any effort at all to fix things?”
Wow.
I was shocked at this woman’s response. It was like asking a person who just ran out of a burning building, “Are you SURE you want to leave? Did you even TRY to put out that fire?”
Another woman I know said, “I don’t think you tried hard enough. You should have MADE him be a better man. You should have MADE him shape up.”
And then there was the senior citizen who rolled her eyes and said, “That kinda thing happened all the time in my day. But we didn’t go blabbing about it to everyone.”
These three women’s responses made me feel feelings. I felt sadness, anger, vulnerability, and embarrassment. Even after hearing the facts, they didn’t really hear them at all. They had decided at the beginning of my story what their conclusion was going to be. They didn’t listen. They didn’t see who I was. They didn’t care to know.
And all of that is okay. It’s their choice. And it was my choice to delete the negative effects of their judgments and statements.
Everyone in this world has a story. They are all beautiful, tragic, inspiring, scary, sad, and hopeful. The next time someone shares their story, really listen. You’re getting a glimpse into their life, which is a sacred experience.
Have you ever shared all of your story, or just the beautiful parts?
Unconditional Love and Light,
Lauren