“On the morning of December 22, 2005, I was four days sober and scared shitless. I had slept over at my brother Justin’s house the night before, and that morning he held back tears as he helped with my tie. I was to appear that day before a federal judge in a U.S. district court for using the mail to obtain pharmaceutical drugs. Justin drove my mother, his wife Julie, and me to the post office in Manchester, New Hampshire, where I was arranged to be detained.” Excerpt from my book “If Not You, Then Who?”
That day was 17 years ago, but it still feels like yesterday. Although I didn’t know it then, it was the beginning of a heart, mind, and soul journey that would transform my trauma, stories, and adversities into a message of hope for those facing similar circumstances.
The last 17 years have taught me that we are all in recovery. You might be in recovery from generational trauma, present life trauma, caretaking, codependency, emotional addictions, living in your head, food, sex, Facebook, alcohol, etc.
Like many of you, I’ve struggled with addiction and mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Aloneness. Attachment. Caretaking. Reflecting on my adult life, I realize I was more afraid of living fully than I was of dying. As extreme as this may sound, it was the truth. What would happen if I shared my authentic voice and gifts with the world entirely? It was easier and less threatening to dim down my light than to shine. However, not expressing and sharing with the world came at a great cost to my well-being and mental health.
There are many ways we can choose to find relief, healing, and integration. Today I utilize many tools of self-care. I also honor and cherish the power of healing in relationships. Being with people who love the real, authentic me has brought profound awareness and healing opportunities.
Integrating my medicine journeys and experiences has also been an integral part of my story. I'm not afraid to share these stories with others. I now guide and coach many in their understanding, application, and integration with these journeys. I plan on sharing more of my experience to bring education, awareness, and understanding to help reduce the stigma of those who choose to explore another healing pathway.
Ignite your light and enjoy the rest of 2022!
#connection
#expansion
