Trauma is when we have experienced extreme levels of stress either as a one off event or over a period of time. When I was in therapy I realized how traumatized I was, I began digging. It was a long and painful journey that often left me exhausted, but I believed it would eventually bring me peace. At times I felt broken, peeling away layer after layer, wondering if healing was even possible.
Discovering Myself
During menopause I learned I had undiagnosed ADHD. I researched it deeply and discovered my neurodivergent strengths. Despite everything, I’ve always tried to see my glass as half full.
My childhood was strict, ruled by a narcissist mother who punished me by making me read the Quran for hours. Looking back on the cultural trauma and domestic violence I experienced, I realized I had focused too much on pain and not on the resilience it gave me.
Finding My Safe Place
I spent my life searching for safety in others, believing it was love or acceptance. What I found instead was that my safe place was me. I was the one person I could always depend on. I also realized I had been everyone else’s safe space, which often left me open to abuse.
From Pain to Compassion
Trauma is being stuck in painful experiences beyond your control. But it also gave me a deeper understanding of compassion. My pain was invisible to the outside world, yet it taught me the importance of kindness.
We all carry stories. Creating a safe space for someone to share can make all the difference. Sometimes it takes only a small act of kindness, but its impact can be lasting.