October is quite a busy month. The thing I’m most passionate about is that October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Some time ago, I walked away from an abusive relationship that nearly claimed my mind and my life.

Honestly, I’m still putting some of the pieces back together. What matters most is that I am doing well. I survived! No matter how difficult my journey, I have come out as a much stronger, focused, wise and more mature woman. I have gained so much despite experiencing loss.

I’m not the only one who survived. There are men and women all around the world who have survived extreme trauma and abuse. I salute each of you. I also solute and celebrate those that may currently be in an abusive relationship and are fighting every day to live a better life. Whether you choose to leave or stay in the relationship, you may benefit from creating a safety plan.

I received training at CAWC (Connections for Abused Women and Their Children) and I recommend contacting them or one of the other organizations listed on my website’s resources page. There are trained advocates to help you create a safety plan that works best for you (and your children). 

Take things one day at a time. It sounds cliche but that’s honestly all you can do, successfully. Being a Survivor doesn’t mean you’ll forget your past. Being a Survivor doesn’t mean you’re perfect. Being a Survivor doesn’t mean you don’t have dreams or triggers. Being a Survivor means you fought for something better than what you had. It means that after going through the unimaginable you’re still here, willing to do whatever it takes to live the life you deserve — one of hopefulness, peace and finding happiness. You deserve to be you, unapologetically. You deserve love and light. You deserve to speak and be heard.

Remember, it’s a process. Life is full of ups and downs and your life will be no different. But there is life after abuse. There is a life after devastation. There is life after trauma and fear. I don’t suggest that you try to do it alone.  Support is important. Whether it be family, friends or professional help.  You deserve an army. You deserve a community of warriors.  Whether it be 3 people or 30. I’m rooting for you. 

Hope Always, 

💜Missy 

Melissa Elise Hall (Missy) is a Life and Relationship Advocate, Author, Speaker and Mentor who has survived depression, suicide, chronic illness, and an extremely emotionally and mentally abusive relationship.

Missy is accepting new clients and speaking engagements. Feel free to contact her via email at msmissy@momentswithmissy.com for more information and to schedule a free consultation. 

http://www.momentswithmissy.com