Wisdom to Overcome Childhood Adversity

I remember how fear of abuse traps you in darkness, trauma makes you feel lost and consumed with sadness, guilt, and shame. The emotional pain feels like an endless punishment that’s impossible to escape.

Along the journey to overcome childhood adversity, I learned that even in the darkest moments, a glimmer of hope breaks through—even when fear of abuse is overwhelming.

Although stepping out of the darkness to overcome adversity feels daunting, genuine healing and life-changing freedom are achievable with the wisdom that illuminates the path to an abundant life.

  • Abuse Journal Is Now Available for Pre-Order

    For years, Abuse Journal has been more than a blog. It has been a place to reflect on the realities of childhood abuse, domestic violence, faith, forgiveness, and the long journey toward healing. What began as personal writings during my own recovery has grown into a collection of lessons, reflections, and hope shared with readers…

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  • After Ten Years, The Secret Darkness Is Complete

    UPDATE: 7/22/2026 The Secret Darkness: Overcoming Abuse and Finding Freedom is available on Amazon Kindle for Pre-order today! The Paperback and Hardcover versions will be available on September 1st, 2026. You can visit my author website LMCarleton.com to learn more. In addition, you can purchase Abuse Journal: Reflections of a Survivor’s Healing Journey on Amazon…

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  • The Remnants Brought Into the Light

    Closing reflection for Abuse Journal. I registered Abuse Journal on October 5th, 2020, nearly six years ago, to illuminate the darkness and empower survivors to live abundant lives. My background as a self-taught website developer strongly influenced the blog’s direction. Outwardly, it was a journal for other survivors; inwardly, it became a place to confront…

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