Dear Journal, As I sit here tonight, the rain gently tapping on the windowpane, I find myself in a moment of quiet reflection. This month has been a whirlwind of emotions and significant steps towards understanding myself better. Beginning therapy has caused a downpour of emotions, both positive and negative. Facing the storm inside me has been daunting, but Elani has been a guiding light. She helped me see that it's okay to acknowledge my feelings and visit those darker places, but they don’t have to define where I live emotionally forever. This realisation has been liberating, allowing me to feel my feels without being completely overwhelmed by them. Elani's probing questions have made me reflect on my journey and the transformations I've undergone. The idea of being “beautifully broken” (like the Japanese art of Kintsugi) has stayed with me, and that “broken” isn’t a dirty or bad word. It's about accepting that my flaws and struggles are part of my unique beautiful story. I’m beginning to see that being a work in progress is not a sign of weakness but of growth, resilience, and strength. I've also started to appreciate the importance of everyone around me, realising that I’m not in this storm alone. There are people in my life who care deeply about me, and it's okay to lean on them.I am not alone. Wait I need to say that again.... I am not alone. Tonight, as I think back over this month, it’s not one that I will celebrate or look back on kindly. I’ve been peeling back the layers and confronting the choices I've made and the pains I've endured. In the past I’ve not been treated kindly, and yes, I’ve made mistakes. While this life isn’t one I had initially chosen to be on, whether I like it or not, it’s the one that I have, and I am not throwing away my shot. I’m starting to understand that growth comes from facing these truths head on and I learning to forgive myself because in the past I have done the best with what I knew at the time. This journey of self-discovery and healing is ongoing, and tonights rain is a gentle reminder that growth often comes from weathering the storm. And although this will be a lifelong journey in healing and learning, I’m grateful for the progress I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned so far. Alex xoxo ------------ Remember, it's okay to seek help if you're struggling with your mental health. Your story matters, and you're not alone in this journey. For resources and support in your area, please visit www.findahelpline.com.
