Dear Misplaced:
If you have read any of the fifteen memories that I have posted, you know quite a bit about my childhood. Perhaps your memories are a little better or worse than mine, but I think we definitely have something in common. I know about the hurt, the sadness, the scars, the isolation, and the feelings of always being misunderstood. I lived it and I know it quite well. You are not alone.
What you need to understand though, is this is only one part of your life, and you are much stronger than you will ever know. Living in this particular moment though, does not mean that it will define the rest of your life. I know that you cannot change the past, and you may very well feel helpless in your current situation but take heart. That past and current situation is your edge. While it has not been pleasant and you probably didn’t choose it; it has given you strength, experience, and wisdom. You just need to recognize it and not let the negative define you. Deep down inside, you know better and you ARE better.
I’ve seen so many who have not seen the advantages of being made strong through tough times and they have spent their entire lives trapped in a mindset of victimhood. I’ve encountered many like us in the eighteen years that I have spent in healthcare. They are the ones who are tortured by their memories. A lot of the broken souls that I have sat one-on-one with; who chose to comfort themselves with alcohol and other illicit substances. I implore you not to even start down this road because it is a trap. Sure, it might mask the pain for a while, but it will keep your mind focused on the pain and not the strength. You will always feel as though you have the need, but that comforting substance damages so much of who you are; your body, your mind, AND even your soul. You ARE worth so much more than that.
I’m not saying that I hold all the answers but what I can tell you is that I survived and you will too! I believe that we all have worth even if those around you have not seen it yet; they will. Just know that I am in your corner and will be writing to you regularly to share a positive perspective.
Until next time; take care and be well.
-Patrick