Things I Can Control & Things I Can Not Control

As a sexual abuse survivor, I have learned a great deal about trauma and how it can affect our health and overall well being. I have learned that because of a traumatic childhood that life expectancy could be reduced. BUT I know my Jesus and I know that we are not defined by a label or diagnosis. I also know that because I now have this knowledge that I now have a responsibility to take back my power for my health not only for myself but for my family. Through this journey, I want to share things that have helped me and just maybe they can help you too.

Everyday, I have to actively choose a healthier lifestyle. Why? Because I want to live a long life for my daughter. I want to grow old with my husband. I want to be around to see all the things possible! I love working behind the chair and seeing all my beautiful customers and visitors to the salon. I want to show up and be present everyday!

So, I have to actively choose:

Not to drink, to exercise. To get enough sleep. To be mindful of what and who has access to me. The pay attention to the products that I use and the ingredients. To guard what I read or watch. To choose wisely the foods that I eat BECAUSE they have the power to help my body heal and to combat illness and inflammation. I know my body is designed to heal itself BUT I have to do the work.

Everyday I have to choose to forgive others and myself. To let go of any bitterness or anger and to say goodbye to shame and resentment. To reframe from negative thinking and to trust God in the process.

These are things that through God’s goodness, mercy and grace. I find freedom in. He gives me the strength and through His power the ability to control the things that I can and to let go of the things that are completely out of my control. While we can’t control what happened to us, We can control how we respond.

Maybe this is true for you? Maybe you are learning how to overcome trauma? What is it that you are holding on to that you need to let go of? What is one active step that you can do today to take back your health?

“Be of good cheer. Do not think of today’s failures, but of the success that may come tomorrow. You have set yourselves a difficult task, but you will succeed if you persevere; and you will find joy in overcoming obstacles. Remember, no effort that we make to attain something beautiful is ever lost.” -Helen Keller