From Darkness to Light: My Journey to Healing and Finding Purpose

There was a time in my life when darkness felt like a constant companion. I lived through the storm of domestic violence—a time when every day was clouded by fear, helplessness, and a crushing sense of unworthiness. Writing these words, I still feel echoes of the pain, but I also feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the person I have become and the purpose I have found.

This is my story of survival, recovery, and rediscovery, and I share it in the hope that it brings light to someone else who may be walking a similar path.

**The Breaking Point**

Living in an abusive relationship is like being caught in a cycle of hope and despair. You tell yourself things will get better. You believe the apologies, the promises, and the fleeting moments of kindness. But slowly, I began to lose pieces of myself.

The final breaking point came one day when I looked in the mirror and no longer recognized the woman staring back. She looked hollow, afraid, and utterly powerless. That moment was both terrifying and liberating—it was the day I decided to choose myself.

Leaving wasn’t easy. It took immense courage, support from people who loved me, and an unrelenting belief that I deserved better. But even after breaking free, the battle wasn’t over.

**The Recovery and Grief Process**

The aftermath of leaving was a rollercoaster of emotions. I grieved not only the relationship but also the version of myself I had lost along the way. There were nights when I questioned if I had made the right decision. The scars—both visible and invisible—were a constant reminder of the pain I endured.

Therapy became a lifeline for me. Through professional help, I began to unpack years of trauma and rebuild my sense of self-worth. I started journaling, meditating, and slowly opening up to trusted friends.

Grieving is not linear. There were days when I felt strong and days when I couldn’t get out of bed. But I learned to give myself grace. Healing is not about perfection; it’s about progress.

**Finding My Purpose**

In the midst of this journey, something unexpected happened: I began to discover my purpose. As I worked through my pain, I felt a growing desire to help others navigate their own challenges. I knew the feeling of being unheard and unseen, and I wanted to be the voice of encouragement that someone else might need.

This realization led me to pursue a path as a mental health life coach. I wanted to turn my pain into power—not just for myself but for others. Today, I have the honor of walking alongside people as they reclaim their lives, heal their wounds, and rediscover their strength. It’s work that fills my heart in ways I can’t fully describe.

**Words of Encouragement**

If you’re reading this and feel trapped in darkness, I want you to know that you are not alone. Your worth is not defined by what you’ve endured but by the incredible strength you have to rise above it. It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to grieve. And it’s okay to take one small step at a time toward healing.

You are worthy of love, joy, and peace. Believe that—even if it feels impossible right now. Because one day, you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come, and you’ll be so proud of the person you’ve become.

**A Note of Gratitude**

As I close this chapter of sharing, my heart is filled with gratitude. I am grateful for the people who stood by me when I couldn’t stand for myself. I am grateful for the lessons I learned through the pain. And most of all, I am grateful for the opportunity to use my story to inspire and empower others.

To those who are still fighting their battles: never stop believing in the light within you. It’s there, even on the darkest days.

With love and hope,

Greshanda