Category: Thought Box

Forgiveness: A Complex Journey

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, today I stand before you to address a topic that holds immense significance in our lives – forgiveness. As human beings, we are often faced with the challenge of forgiving those who have wronged us. But what happens when the person in question is a narcissist? Can we truly forgive them? Let us explore this intricate question and unravel the complexities of forgiveness.

1. Defining Forgiveness:

Forgiveness is a profound act of releasing resentment or anger towards someone who has caused us harm. It is a choice to let go of negative emotions and seek peace within ourselves. However, forgiveness does not imply condoning or forgetting the actions that caused the pain.

2. Understanding Narcissism:

Narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Dealing with a narcissist can be challenging, as their actions often cause pain and emotional distress to those around them.

3. The Complexity of Forgiving a Narcissist:

Forgiving a narcissist can be an arduous undertaking. Their lack of remorse, inability to empathize, and persistent need for validation make it challenging to find closure. The question arises: is it possible to forgive someone who seems incapable of understanding the pain they have caused?

4. The Power of Forgiveness:

Forgiveness is not about absolving the narcissist of their actions; rather, it is about finding inner peace and liberation from the burden of anger and resentment. By forgiving, we free ourselves from the negative emotions that consume us, allowing personal growth and healing to take place.

5. Self-Forgiveness:

In addition to forgiving the narcissist, it is crucial to address the importance of self-forgiveness. Often, individuals who have been victimized by narcissists blame themselves, questioning their own worth and actions. Understanding that healing begins with self-compassion and forgiveness is essential for moving forward.

6. Setting Boundaries:

When dealing with a narcissist, forgiveness does not mean subjecting ourselves to further harm. It is vital to establish healthy boundaries, protecting ourselves from ongoing toxicity. Forgiveness can coexist with the decision to distance oneself from the narcissist, allowing for personal growth and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, forgiveness is a complex journey that requires introspection, strength, and self-compassion. While forgiving a narcissist may seem challenging, it is possible to find peace within ourselves by letting go of resentment and anger. Remember, forgiveness does not excuse or justify their actions but empowers us to heal and move forward. May we embark on this journey with open hearts, embracing the transformative power of forgiveness.



The Power of Resilience:

Rising Above Challenges as a Mother

Life can undoubtedly present us with overwhelming difficulties, testing our strength and resilience. At times, the weight of responsibilities and the burdens we bear can become heavy, leaving us longing for an escape from the harsh realities. However, it is crucial to remember that crying and giving up are not the most effective ways to overcome obstacles. As a mother, it is essential to prioritize your obligations and responsibilities, even when the allure of resorting to harmful coping mechanisms, such as drugs, may seem tempting.

Being a mother means engaging in one of the most significant acts of unconditional love and selflessness. Though it may seem challenging, the journey of motherhood often leads to personal growth and a sense of fulfillment. Rather than seeking temporary relief in unhealthy outlets, embracing resilience can yield immense personal growth and a deeper appreciation for the strength you possess.

1. Embracing Emotional Catharsis: Crying can provide a temporary release, allowing us to acknowledge and process our emotions. Instead of viewing it as a sign of weakness, consider it as an opportunity for emotional catharsis. Expressing emotions can help in finding clarity and developing coping strategies that empower you to face challenges head-on.

2. Seeking Support: Remember that you don’t have to face challenges alone. Reach out to your support system, whether it’s a partner, family, friends, or a community of fellow mothers. Sharing your struggles and concerns can provide valuable perspectives, guidance, and the reassurance that you are not alone.

3. Developing Coping Mechanisms: Rather than turning to substances, explore healthy coping mechanisms that can provide solace during difficult times. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, such as hobbies, exercise, mindfulness, or creative outlets, can help alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being.

4. Prioritizing Self-care: Self-care is not a luxury, but a vital component of maintaining resilience. As a mother, it’s essential to carve out time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Prioritizing self-care strengthens your emotional and mental well-being, allowing you to better fulfill your obligations as a parent. Shave those armpits & legs. Don’t show defeat!

5. Communicating Boundaries: Communicating your needs and setting healthy boundaries is key to maintaining your emotional well-being. It is important for others to understand the challenges you face, so they can provide support and empathy. Be brave in expressing your limitations to ensure a healthy balance in your life.

Embracing the responsibilities and obligations of motherhood can feel overwhelming, but it also brings immense joy and fulfillment. Instead of seeking solace in destructive behaviors, focus on developing resilience and healthy coping mechanisms. Remember, by facing challenges head-on, you demonstrate the strength and love that define the remarkable journey of motherhood.



Photo by Madison Inouye on Pexels.com

I hope anyone can find some humor in this because sometimes it does seem as if life does need step-by-step instructions, but I do know, Life was not supposed to be this hard. These challenges are not something they teach you about in school. Go to college, they say. I was led to believe that going to college was supposed to make my life better, I would be married and live happily ever after. They should have taught us what happens when you do everything right and yet obstacles are still thrown at you. I’ve lost everything I had, I’m navigating with pennies but no need to fret, I know the Pythagorean theory.

Maniacal Laughter

Living with cancer is like having a daily battle with a professional wrestler who never takes a break. It’s a stress-fest, my friend! And just when you thought you had enough on your plate, here comes the apartment drama. The new owners decide to play extreme home makeover and kick you out without even asking if you want to stay. Seriously, the audacity!

Apparently, people have this strange idea that Stage 4 automatically means you’re on the fast track to the pearly gates. Can we please educate them on the fact that we’re here to prove them wrong? We’ve got fight left in us!

Now, when it comes to finding a new place to live, it’s like trying to find a unicorn in a haystack. People take one look at you, hear you’re unemployed, and start running for the hills. Little do they know that my trusty disability check is more consistent than some jobs.

And let’s not forget about the credit snobs. They give you the side-eye just because your credit history is as empty as a politician’s promise. Newsflash: having no credit doesn’t make you a financial delinquent. It just means you’ve been living life on your own terms.

Oh, and the discrimination you face for having a service animal. Ridiculous! Your furry friend is a lifesaver, literally. Who needs judgmental people when you’ve got a loyal companion by your side?

Listen, my friend, don’t let these obstacles bring you down. You deserve a home for you, your mini-me, and your furry BFF. Despite the unfairness of it all, keep fighting. Reach out to local advocates, cancer support groups, or housing assistance programs. They can be your secret weapon in finding a cozy, welcoming nest. Stay strong, keep that sense of humor intact, and show the world that no matter how hard life punches, you’ve got the resilience to hit back!

Imposing Imposter:

Embracing Triumph and Resilience in the Face of Imposter Syndrome

Life is a journey full of ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves grappling with an unexpected challenge—the feeling of being an imposter in our own lives. Imposter syndrome can leave us questioning our abilities, doubting our achievements, and feeling as though we don’t belong.

But amidst the struggle, we have the power to rise above it all. We can choose to see imposter syndrome as an opportunity for growth, resilience, and self-discovery. By embracing triumph and nurturing resilience in trying times, we can overcome the limitations that others might try to impose on us.

1. Acknowledge your worth and accomplishments
Remember that the accomplishments you’ve achieved in your life are not merely coincidences or strokes of luck. Recognize the hard work, dedication, and skills that have brought you to where you are today. Celebrate your achievements, both big and small, and embrace the fact that you are deserving of success.

2. Embrace your uniqueness
Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on what makes you unique. Each of us has distinctive talents, experiences, and perspectives that shape our journey. Embrace your individuality and recognize that your unique qualities are what set you apart, making you valuable in your own right.

3. Cultivate resilience
Resilience is the key to overcoming hurdles and navigating through difficult times. Understand that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of life. Instead of allowing them to define you, use them as stepping stones to grow stronger and wiser. Embrace failures as learning opportunities and bounce back with an unwavering determination to succeed.

4. Surround yourself with positive influences
Choose your circle wisely and surround yourself with people who lift you up. Seek out individuals who believe in you, inspire you, and encourage you to be your authentic self. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network will help guard against negative influences and empower you to maintain a positive mindset.

5. Practice self-compassion
Remember that you are only human, and it’s okay to make mistakes and face challenges. Treat yourself with kindness, understanding, and forgiveness. Practice self-care to nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By being gentle with yourself, you’ll develop the inner strength needed to push past imposter syndrome and thrive.

6. Stay focused on your goals
Don’t let the fear of being exposed as an imposter hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Set goals that align with your passions and aspirations, and consistently work towards them. Visualize your success, believe in yourself, and don’t allow the opinions or criticisms of others to deter you from your path.

Life may present us with unexpected challenges, but remember that it’s during these trying times that our resilience is tested and our true potential is revealed. Don’t allow imposter syndrome or the negativity of others to bring you down. Embrace your triumphs, be resilient, and keep pushing forward. You are stronger than you realize, and life’s hardships can empower you to shine brighter than ever before.

The Price of Strength

Has anyone ever complimented you by saying “you’re so strong”?

I know it comes from a good place but sometimes it hurts being told:

  • “you’re so brave”
  • “you’re so strong”
  • “I don’t understand how you do it”

I would give anything for an easy life.

I’m tired of always fighting and being strong and brave.

Isn’t there a party after a courageous triumph ?!

With that being said

Please help someone just down on their luck. My car broke down,my papers were handed to me about moving out and I opened my mouth regarding having a service animal and now being ignored regarding an apartment .

All positive vibes accepted https://gofund.me/2176d4f3

https://linktr.ee/Stuller904

L-O-V-E

The love bomb and the discard. The devaluation cycle. You go from on top of the world to the gutter really quick. A little bit of bread crumbing in the middle to give you hope. Just a tiny taste of the love they used to feed you. Scraps really. And it almost seemed like they were coming back. The silent treatment. A whole lot of the silent treatment. Not being acknowledged at all. Maybe ghosting. What’s the real difference when all is said and done? First, being called a “soul mate”. A “twin flame”. They waited their whole entire life to find you. Then the stone walling. The gaslighting. The manipulation. The lies. You’ll never have to be alone again. That’s the big lie. It just sounds so appealing. Perfect. But somewhere deep down inside you knew that it was too good to be true. But it was beautiful. Magical. Everything you ever wanted. And you can’t fucking believe you fell for it, can you? Was it real? Was it fake? What about the feelings that you experienced? Was it all in your head? All in your heart? Either way, you feel betrayed now. And of course, they telegraphed the whole break up. Early on. They pretty much told you exactly what they were going to do. All the way down to how they were going to replace the supply. You could see it in their patterns. In the way that they talked about their exes. Their family. Possibly their boss. Sometimes even their friends. Maybe they outright told you. But you were so enamored that you simply refused to believe what they were showing you. Even as they spelled it out…. in crystal clear language. Red flags. Ignored. So many red flags. They certainly are hard to see through those rose colored glasses, aren’t they? And the whole experience feels dehumanizing, doesn’t it? Suffering in silence. Hoping they’d come back if you just suppressed every want. Eliminated every need. If you could just stop. Stop your anxiety. Stop the meltdowns. You didn’t used to be like this. Your nervous system is disregulated. You haven’t cried this much in years. And you try not to reach out, but of course you break down and you do, and you look crazy. Each message obviously distraught. You feel crazy too. And I guess in a way you are.That’s what they’d say, right? Insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. It was never gonna change. Face it, you knew they weren’t coming back. But you have no fucking self respect, do you? You quieted your own needs. Tried to be less you. Begged. Pleaded. Groveled. Just to be met with a wall of silence. You willingly gave away your dignity. And now you fucking hate people. Don’t know how you will ever trust again. Don’t worry. You won’t. At least not the way you trusted them. And that’s a good thing in the long run. Lessons can look an awful like like love if you don’t pay close attention to the red flags they’re wearing. And that’s what they were. A lesson. Wrapped in red flags. Not love. Just a really fucking hard lesson.

Poison Paradise

We all know the feeling of being in a toxic relationship.

It’s exhausting,

It takes away our self-esteem and leaves us feeling helpless and confused. Despite this, many people find themselves staying in these unhealthy relationships, wondering why it’s so hard to leave.

The first reason why people stay in toxic relationships is fear of the unknown. When you are stuck in a toxic dynamic, you know what you’re getting – and it’s familiar. Leaving a comfort zone can be intimidating, as it means embracing the uncertainty of starting again and potentially facing the same problems anew. Fear of the unknown can lock people in damaging cycles, making them unwilling to take a chance on something new.

Another reason related to this is fear of change. People naturally hate change, even for the better. Even if they want to get out of a bad situation, they might still be too scared to initiate a major lifestyle shift. This could be compounded by the fear of judgment from family and friends or the shame of living in poverty.

Additionally, there is the fact that often, people in toxic relationships often become emotionally dependent on each other. This dependency keeps them stuck in a negative dynamic, unable to move on and find happiness elsewhere.

If a person has been conditioned to believe that negative behavior is love, they may feel that leaving their partner is betraying them.

It’s important to remember that no matter what the circumstances are, no one deserves to be in a toxic relationship.

If you find yourself in an unhealthy dynamic, know that you are not alone – and there are always options. Draining and difficult as it may be, it’s time to make the change and seek out healthier relationships that will provide you with joy and peace.