I find journaling helpful. I am sharing something I wrote to myself this morning when I was feeling anxious, fearful, lonely, and a bit hopeful. It is a strange mix of emotions. I'm thankful for this group as a place to go for support, where people will listen and not judge. I hope the following may be useful to others.
I don’t know.
I don’t know how long this will last, and that is ok. I don’t have to know.
I know what happened is not my fault. I know I did not deserve to be treated the way I was treated. I know I am a good and caring person. I know that I am capable and worthy of love. I know that the feelings I am having are valid, normal, and healthy.
I know that I need to learn to love myself more, to take care of myself better, to be easier on myself, and to not allow others to define who I am, even when I love them, maybe especially when I love them.
I know I love myself. I know that I am capable of great joy, feelings of connectedness, and love and that these states are available to me whether I am by myself or with a partner. I know I need to learn to cultivate these states within myself so I can experience them on my own.
I am falling in love with myself. I am here for myself. I am amazing, funny, intelligent, and kind. I am attractive. I am capable.
I am still going through a very difficult time. But I’m going to get through this day, find moments of peace and joy, and notice them. I will use them as a reminder that, even though things are difficult right now, life is good and will get better in time.