Finding Freedom in My Individuality and Overcoming the Fear of Not Being Liked

Finding Freedom in My Individuality and Overcoming the Fear of Not Being Liked

I still remember the name of their exclusive club: CHABELCK. In seventh grade, the children at my middle school traded their Nintendos and Polly Pocket dolls for iPhones and Barbie dolls–in the form of minions for their social cliques. Soon after the school year...
With Patience and Perseverance: Renewing My Faith On My Terms

With Patience and Perseverance: Renewing My Faith On My Terms

Writer’s Note: This article discusses topics related to spiritual abuse. My purpose in sharing my story is not to single out any specific faith. While my negative experiences occurred within Christianity, it is important to recognize that religious abuse can happen in...
Embracing My Superpowers as an Empath and Highly Sensitive Person

Embracing My Superpowers as an Empath and Highly Sensitive Person

Recently, while I was waiting at a crowded restaurant, I found myself interacting with a toddler and his mother. I smiled, played peek-a-boo, and gave him a playful “Hello!” At first, he hid behind his mother’s legs, peeking out at me every few...
Epigenetic Trauma: Predators, Abuse, and Ancestral Healing

Epigenetic Trauma: Predators, Abuse, and Ancestral Healing

Trigger Warning: This article contains stories of abuse; reader discretion is advised. “Be careful whom you trust; evil cloaks itself in many forms.” What is love if it doesn’t hurt, or like in my case, crash with a whimper? Perhaps your first crush was like...