Last Monday our POOT meeting went so well. I was encouraged when each woman could share what was on her heart. Being heard and encouraged is such a gift.
It was my turn to teach. I have attached a copy here on my blog. I hope you find it helpful, as did those who attended the meeting.
We are proud of your courage and taking the step to come to POOT. Here, you will find support and receive information on Phase work that offers healing so you can be free.
In Phase One, it is necessary to admit the trauma happened and that it did affect you.
Five common reasons why women do not admit the trauma:
Minimizing. Some survivors of trauma minimize their experience, saying, “It was no big deal.”
Comparing. “Well, she was raped and I wasn’t.” “She was beaten. I only had a slap.”
Denial. “That didn’t happen to me.” “That didn’t affect me.”
Fear. “What will they do or think when I tell them about this?” “Will they reject me?”
Shame. “I am not enough.” “This was my fault.” “I just can’t share this secret.”
Regardless of the reason, not admitting the trauma happened and that it did affect us, will keep us stuck. Here are some truths to dwell on:
I was hurt. It was a physical, emotional, or sexual assault.
I am not to blame for what happened to me. I was a victim of the abuse.
It wasn’t sexual; it was about power and control.
It was not my fault.
It did happen to me. I don’t need to hide.
I am worthy, as God’s daughter, of His love, to be loved and to love.
With God’s help, I can let go of the past and experience freedom.
With God’s help, I can take responsibility for my behavior that was a result of abuse.
As difficult as it is, to share the trauma and how it manifested in our lives, the benefit is beyond words. Living in freedom. Discovering your true self. Confidence. Knowing deep within you are enough, loved, cherished. Experiencing more peace, joy, and love daily in your life. Being the woman God created you to be.
It’s not easy. Life is full of struggles. You can learn to welcome and hold those negative emotions without letting them affect your self-worth.
Takes time. Healing is a life-long process. Sometimes it’s two steps forward and one step back.
A lot of work. Like pruning a rose bush. But the beauty of a blooming rose is precious.
You may not trust God at this point. “Why did You allow this to happen to me?” As we say in Phase Two:
God does not cause trauma. People do.
We don’t know why God allows trauma. But we do know nothing can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39). He longs to draw you closer into a loving relationship. He offers you a healing transformation to be the woman He created you to be. He loves more than you know!
Admit it happened. Ask God to help you heal.
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