Written By: Anonymous
Growing up with an abusive parent, both mentally and physically, was an incredibly desperate and isolating experience. I struggled to love myself as I should have, and my self-esteem plummeted to the point where I believed I was unloved by my own father. When he drank, he became a different person—someone cruel and unrecognizable. He was far from the father I longed for, and the absence of that father-daughter bond left me feeling angry, sad, and inadequate. I often felt so misunderstood and hopeless that I contemplated taking my own life.
Looking back on my childhood, I realize how far I’ve come. From being a little girl yearning for a connection with her father to now, where I no longer have to endure that pain, I have grown immensely. As I grew older, things spiraled out of control, but with God by my side, I continued to push forward. I carry the memories of what happened in our home, but I have chosen to forgive my father and all that transpired.
You might wonder why I would forgive someone who made my life so difficult. I have prayed and cried out to God for guidance on how to handle the pain that once overwhelmed me. Surrendering my burdens to God brought a miraculous sense of restoration, freeing me from things that no longer served my purpose. Forgiving my father has brought a measure of peace to my life. It may not be perfect, but it is significantly better than my past.
For anyone who has endured mental and physical abuse, I leave you with this scripture: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
This journey has taught me the power of faith, resilience, and forgiveness. With God’s help, I have found a way to move forward and create a life that is no longer defined by my past.
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