8 Months Ago vs Now: A Healing Journey – Post 5

There was a time when joy felt… fake.

I would laugh in public, and cry when I got home.
I’d smile through special occasions, gritting my teeth beneath the surface.
Holidays, birthdays, even dinners — all felt like minefields.

Not anymore.

Now, I laugh — genuinely.
I enjoy the moment I’m in — without anticipating the storm.
I don’t feel guilty for having a good time.
I don’t shrink to keep the peace.
I’m at peace.

🎉 My daughter and I go on holiday — anger-free, guilt-free.
🎂 We celebrate birthdays with love, not fear.
🍷 We’re alcohol-free, emotionally sober, and clear-headed.

This is what joy looks like when it’s not forced.
This is what life feels like without control hanging over your head.

Joy is real now.
Because I’m real now.

#RealJoy #TraumaHealing #FromSurvivingToThriving #FreedomIsJoy #HealingTogether #NoMoreControl