Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Telling the Truth

"Having the wisdom to face the truth will bring us closer to peace." Melody Beattie.

It's getting easier to stand up.....to be seen....to tell what I lived. It's getting easier to own those things that I never wanted anyone to find out.....And  I'm discovering....everytime I speak.... everytime I tell.....I feel just a little more free.

I was told that what happened didn't define who I was....but in my heart...I believed it did. And I always thought there was something about me that caused those things to happen.

That  belief made me hold onto secrets...and keeping secrets allowed the shame to keep me a prisoner.  Not telling forced me to live less than my best....and it pushed me to hide.  I lived in fear of being found out.....but I see now that speaking what I lived....telling those things I didn't want anyone to know....is a huge key to living free. And I've learned something else...owning what happened....telling my story.....helps others to stand up and tell their truth.  

Sometimes I wonder why I lived when friends didn't. But I did live....and I've been given more than I could have ever dreamed...so I'm going to tell and keep on telling.....not just for me...but so others can find freedom too......

19 comments:

dawn said...

And THAT'S how it works!
Sometimes I wonder a lot of things too, Sarah, but being open and honest about my addicitons, though trying at times, has been my saving grace. We may wish to step carefully and/or strategically AROUND our issues, but at the end of the day,
the only way out
is THROUGH
~d

middle child said...

God has a purpose for you.

Crown of Beauty said...

Truth is often painful, that's why it is people often choose to hide. But it is true that when we are willing to let the truth be known, or face up to the truth and allow it to confront us, there is a place of greater freedom that we never knew before.

Rejoicing with you, Nikki, in this season of truth and coming into the light.

Love
Lidj

Just Be Real said...

Hard not to question many things in life! Dear one, God's purpose for you is not over! Blessings and thank you for the continued encouragement.

Anonymous said...

Its not only therapy for you to let it out its therapy to all you let know that have had similar things or non similar but problems and you help them to see a way to overcome the hurt.
you help me and didnt even know it hu?

Sheila Deeth said...

Thank you so much. Someone always has to start the conversation; someone has to tell, so others can hear.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Sarah -

Those secrets take over our being, hold us hostage, and displace the truth. Exposed and brought to the light, they lose their power to rule our lives.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Chatty Crone said...

I agree with Susan - the more you let them out - the less power they have over you. And you have no idea how many people you are helping.

Sandie

A Plain Observer said...

it is hard to open up because in openning up we have to face sometimes that fear all over again. It takes courage and that you have. That's why you lived.

Anonymous said...

Sarah, I always find you inspiring. There are times when it's appropriate to keep our secrets to ourselves, but you're right-- there are also times when it would be best if we didn't hold on to them. I guess it has a lot to do with trust in others.

Wishing you well,
NOS

Anonymous said...

Sarah,

It's not always easy to "be yourself" in this life. I'm glad that you have found the courage to do so.

-LR

Sharon said...

Cheering on the truth that you tell! I wish I could hear you speak - I just know that it's a powerful message!

You are right - your courage in sharing your story enables others to stand tall. That is at least one reason why God got you through it all.

"He comforts us in all our troubles so we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." (1 Corinthians 1:4 - NLT)

GOD BLESS!

Paula said...

I feel you not tell your story only but those of your friends too. Allowing ourselves to have a voice is one of the most powerful things we can give to ourselves. Love and hugs

Patti Hanan said...

Thank you for helping others stand tall, Sarah.

Mya said...

You have found your voice and the courage to use it. For many you are their voice and with time we hope they too will grow stronger - you have been their guide.

nancygrayce said...

I think telling your story helps not only you but many, many other people! Keep talking, sharing and loving!

Terri Tiffany said...

And you are!!

Anonymous said...

John 8:32 is one if my favorite verses...

Speaking the truth to myself and others has been incredibaly difficult and incredibly freeing at the same time.

Thanks for continuing to shine the light of hope for all of us. :)

Blessings,
Tammy

Unknown said...

Somehow society tends to blame the victims right along with the assailants. Those who have been hurt lift us out of this terrible ignorant fog with their courageous tales truthfully told. God bless you on your journey. You are lifting others from the fog.