Eight months ago, I took a step that changed my life — I walked away from abuse. I didn’t know then how I would manage. For weeks, I doubted myself. There were moments when I honestly believed I would go back. But then I asked myself the hardest question of all: Go back to what?
More control? More gaslighting? More pain disguised as love?

The first three to four months were nothing short of brutal. I faced threats, intimidation, a barrage of abusive emails, and desperate attempts at control from those who once claimed to be “family.” It felt like I had walked out of one prison only to face another. But with the support of true friends — the ones who saw the truth and held space for my healing — I blocked the voices of harm. I stopped allowing fear to dictate my decisions.

And now, life is different.
Life is better.

The changes have been profound and far-reaching. My habits have shifted.
How I eat, how I drink, how I spend money — all of it is more aligned with me.
My circle of friends has changed too — smaller, yes, but richer. Authentic. Safe.
There’s no more control, no more being monitored, no more walking on eggshells.

These days, the time I spend alone is not because I’m being ignored or punished — it’s because I choose solitude. And I’m loving it. In that quiet, I’ve rediscovered myself.

Every day brings new faces, new opportunities, and new growth.
My knowledge expands.
My confidence builds.
I’m healing in real time — and I can feel it.

Yes, there is life after trauma.
Yes, there is freedom after abuse.
And yes, it takes time — but it is so worth it.

I’m not claiming to be “done” or “fixed.” I’m a work in progress, and always will be.
But for the first time in a very long time, that feels like a beautiful thing.
Because I’m progressing toward something healthy, whole, and honest.

To anyone who is wondering if they can do it too — please believe me:
You can.
And on the other side of fear is a life that finally feels like your own.

— Linda C J Turner

Trauma Therapist | Neuroscience & Emotional Intelligence Practitioner | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment