Self-acceptance
“Will I ever be able to forgive my molester…”
We like to believe that healing is a linear path, a path where every step we take is one of forgiveness. Forgiveness without the shame, hatred, and anger that we feel over the experience. But, the anger, the hatred, the shame and the sadness we feel is our path to healing, our path to forgiveness.
“I was a shy, ugly duckling who was bullied by others…”
I don’t mean to come off harsh, but I see it so much nowadays, especially with the invention of Instagram and social media. There’s a false sense of self-worth that pervades our society that is based upon looks and a defined set of standards of what beauty is.
“I always attract shitty, abusive friends…”
You are your best friend, your biggest supporter, your ride or die. You may have others in life who will treat you with the respect and reverence that you deserve, but no one can love you the way you love yourself or treat you as well as you can treat yourself.
“If love is tainted or toxic, can it truly be love?”
You, my good friend, have just hit the nail on the head. Yes, you should focus on the unconditional, non-toxic love that you can give yourself but also on forgiving the past hurts and experiences inflicted upon you by your parents.
DearSpence 