Tag: #gratitude

Gratitude for All the Good Things in My Life Right Now (Because, Let’s Be Honest, It Was About Time)

By Linda C J Turner, Therapist & Advocate — Linda C J Turner Trauma Therapist | Neuroscience & Emotional Intelligence Practitioner | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment ©Linda C J Turner

Let’s take a moment to celebrate something radical:I’m grateful.Yes — like, actually grateful. Not in a “hashtag-blessed-while-crying-inside” kind of way, but in a real, spine-straightening, heart-smiling, “is this peace??” sort of way. And honestly? After the chaos, the plot twists, the villains, the emotional gymnastics, and the occasional WTF Wednesdays… it feels suspicious. But also: absolutely amazing.… Read More Gratitude for All the Good Things in My Life Right Now (Because, Let’s Be Honest, It Was About Time)

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

🧠 Not Grateful Enough? Or Just Not a Doormat?

In the quiet moments after a long relationship ends, many survivors of emotional imbalance find themselves haunted by the same unspoken truth: some people only love what you give, not who you are. What’s come to light—both in my experience and in the stories of countless others—is the toxic belief that one should remain eternally grateful in relationships… Read More 🧠 Not Grateful Enough? Or Just Not a Doormat?

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

“Family Isn’t Just a Word – It’s What You Do With It”

Looking back now with a clear and peaceful mind, I can finally see what I couldn’t fully grasp while I was in it. Thirty-two years… and not one invite from his family for Christmas, birthdays, or holidays. Not once. Despite all the smiles and the talk of “family,” there were no shared celebrations, no moments… Read More “Family Isn’t Just a Word – It’s What You Do With It”

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Sabotage

When someone creates something beautiful—a moment, an achievement, or even a sense of peace—only to take it away or destroy it, it can leave the other person feeling constantly on edge, as if happiness is conditional and never truly theirs to hold. This cycle of building up and tearing down can be a form of emotional manipulation, keeping the other person destabilized and dependent, constantly striving for the brief moments of peace or approval.

Such people thrive in creating an atmosphere of unease because it allows them to maintain control. If things are unpleasant, they can position themselves as the only one who can “fix” the situation, perpetuating a cycle where they become the source of both the pain and the fleeting relief. It’s an exhausting and damaging dynamic that can erode confidence, joy, and even a sense of self over time.… Read More Sabotage

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Power Dynamics and Exploitation

This is where the phrase becomes problematic. In some relationships—be it personal, professional, or societal—those in positions of power may exploit this notion, wielding their support as a tool of manipulation or coercion. They might expect unquestioning loyalty, gratitude, or even submission in return for their assistance, which undermines the very foundation of a respectful, mutual relationship.

The danger lies in the misuse of the phrase to silence dissent, dismiss valid grievances, or justify abusive behavior. For instance, someone providing financial or emotional support might invoke this sentiment to guilt the other party into compliance, subtly (or overtly) reinforcing an unhealthy power dynamic. This distorts the original intention of the phrase, turning it into a tool for control rather than a reminder of mutual respect.
… Read More Power Dynamics and Exploitation

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Remember the Details

Showing someone you truly care is one of the most profound ways to build connection and trust. It’s not about grand gestures (though they have their place) but about the small, consistent actions that demonstrate your thoughtfulness, empathy, and love. It’s about making someone feel seen, valued, and understood.

Here are some heartfelt ways to show someone you genuinely care:… Read More Remember the Details

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment