
When You Find Love is a Poem by L.M. Carleton.
When you find love,
you’ve changed toxic behaviors.
When you find love,
you’ve overcome emotional anguish.

Throughout my healing journey, I have learned that even in the darkest moments, a small glimmer of hope can break through—especially when fear and memories of abuse feel overwhelming.
There were times when fear clouded my judgment and shaped my decisions. The weight of past trauma left me feeling lost, consumed by sadness, guilt, and shame. I often withdrew from others, hiding from those who caused harm and isolating myself as a way to cope. The emotional pain felt endless, like a constant punishment I could not escape.
Although stepping out of the darkness and facing adversity felt daunting, it was possible. Along the healing journey, you meet people who offer support, guidance, and wisdom, illuminating a path toward healing and freedom.

When You Find Love is a Poem by L.M. Carleton.
When you find love,
you’ve changed toxic behaviors.
When you find love,
you’ve overcome emotional anguish.

What is a toxic relationship with drama?
Toxic relationships develop when one or both people are mentally unhealthy and emotionally unstable.
When a relationship starts on shaky ground, the toxicity identified by excessive drama increases unhealthy behavior patterns (passive aggression, manipulation, jealousy, etc.).
These harmful behaviors create a toxic situation with emotional highs and heartfelt lows. As the anxiety builds, you feel extreme love and hate and express deep sorrow and forgiveness.
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Upstate, New York. Mid 1980’s.
My father always had a way with words, and one day, in a moment of anger, his advice planted the healing seeds of faith. It happened after my husband destroyed all our wedding presents, except an elegant family Bible, in a fit of rage.
Several months later, he made me ask my father to purchase the Bible for drug money. I walked up the steps to his small apartment, knocked once, and opened the door. Stepping into the kitchen, I notice him sitting on the side of the bed in the next room.
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