Abuse Journal empowers survivors with the wisdom to overcome childhood adversity, adverse childhood experiences, and domestic violence so they can live abundant lives.
My name is L.M. Carleton.
I started reflective writing in 2014, after an unexpected encounter with an estranged, abusive husband on a dating website.
Journaling about experiences of childhood abuse and neglect, or domestic violence, helped release inner turmoil.
I recalled how fear of abuse clouds your thoughts and influences decisions. The weight of abuse leaves you feeling lost and trauma burdened by sadness, guilt, and shame.
I understand how the emotional pain feels like a never-ending punishment. There were many moments when I wanted to give up and accept defeat, but a small glimmer of hope for a better life kept me going.
It’s difficult to overcome living in fear, and remembering difficult times can be challenging. However, the lessons learned and the wisdom you gain from reflecting on those hardships enrich your life.
Who is Abuse Journal for?
If you’re an abuse survivor, chances are you dream of a better life, but something stops you from making your dream a reality.
Perhaps you;
- Live in fear of an abuser.
- Keep your abuse a secret.
- Live with guilt and shame.
Having walked in the abuse victims’ shoes, I grasp the heartache. The danger of keeping your abuse a secret—the anguish of living in fear and the burden of guilt and shame.
I kept the abuse a secret and the skeletons hidden in the closet for years. But the painful memories resurfaced after an encounter with an abusive, estranged husband on a dating website.
Afterward, I mustered up the courage to create a writing blog to reflect on childhood abuse and trauma. Often referred to as breaking the silence.
Learn How to Overcome Adversity
I discovered how adverse childhood experiences affect your adult life.
How flawed mindsets about relationships, family dynamics, and sexual behavior were formed. And how this mindset became so deeply ingrained in patterns of thinking and ways of living that it was no longer abnormal.
Through self-reflection, I realized that walking by faith leads to forgiveness and authentic healing. The path to an abundant life is to grow in divine wisdom and trust in God’s grace to restore one’s life.
Abuse Journal illuminates the darkness with wisdom to gain clarity on adverse childhood experiences and to understand the root causes of adversity. I hope it empowers you to conquer your fear and tell your abuse story so you can live an abundant life.
Take the First Step on the Journey to Healing
Begin your healing journey by recognizing the emotional anguish caused by mental or physical suffering. Allow yourself to feel your distress and sadness, and understand that emotional healing is essential.
This process often requires facing and working through challenging experiences. You can do this through self-reflection, journaling, or professional help.
Please note: Abuse Journal is not a form of professional support. The content on this blog is based on the personal experiences and perspectives of an abuse survivor.
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I believe the healing journey is unique for everyone, but the most crucial step is to find the courage to share your story. Even if abusers say, “Don’t tell anyone,” or no one listens to you. Keep pressing forward until someone pulls up a chair next to you.
Your story is more than what happened to you. It’s who you become and how adversity affects your mindset and heart. I hope these posts help you learn ways to overcome adversity, enabling you to live an abundant life.