Peace and freedom knowing I don't have to hold onto the past

Female, Anonymous - The Colony, TX 

What I like most about my sessions is having an advocate in my life to help me navigate and process my thoughts and emotions. I like that I have accountability in doing the work to heal and applying what I've read in the recommended books. I enjoy having an outside perspective on what I'm dealing with, and I appreciate Stephanie's knowledge of God's word. My relationship with God has also improved, and I find myself spending my morning drives in prayer and praise. I am more aware of how necessary it is to read the Bible, and I'm better able to stay grounded in the truth. I know God is my provider, and I'm reminded of His grace daily. 

During my work with Stephanie, I learned how to forgive others and myself and now live in freedom from resentment. I have more peace and freedom knowing that I don't have to hold onto things of the past. Especially the painful memories from when I was younger growing up with a mom who I felt wasn't there for me and was overbearing and demanding. When I decided to forgive my mom, I really found that my perspective shifted. I saw that my mom was always there for support, and she supported me in ways that she could. She wasn't always able to be there for everything, but she did her best with what she had, and I find a sense of gratitude in that. I don't have to live with resentment or be upset anymore about whatever happened years ago. 

I'm learning to take better care of myself by setting healthy boundaries and learning when to say 'yes' and 'no' to work requests, friends, and family. I feel comfortable knowing when to rest and when to push through. I feel like I have life balance and overall peace. Also, with loving and taking care of myself, I've found that it's necessary for me to do even the littlest things like getting my nails done or buying myself something nice. I've also learned to add humor to my relationship with my boyfriend, which did not exist before. I have more patience and a grace for myself and others, and I'm becoming better at knowing when I'm betraying myself and not being a friend to myself.