I stand before you today as a testament, and sharing my story about chasing those elusive fireflies and learning to live free again. You see, I used to be afraid of the dark, scared of what might jump out at me from the shadows.

Trauma had a way of coloring my view of the world, making me see dangerous around every corner. Living in fear became my norm, like a comfy, but terrifying, security, blanket.

But one day, something shifted.

I decided to go out there and chase fireflies into the unknown instead of waiting for joy to come to me, to take a chance on experiencing happiness and passion and freedom that comes with letting go and letting God.

Slowly, and surely, I began to find myself again. I started to recognize that the fears of holding me back were nothing more than illusions, smoking mirrors designed to keep me small.

And you know what? I am tired of playing small.

I am tired of missing out on my on fire, and on the things in life that truly bring me joy .

So, I am taking a leap of faith, and I am starting by releasing the group the fear hat on me, embracing the uncertainty of the unknown.

I’ve realized that when the pain of staying the same is greater than the fear of the unknown, that’s when we step up our game. That’s when we let go of fear. That’s when we embrace a fierce determination to thrive, and that’s when we know we’re ready for change.

Here are the book links I mentioned to help you on your writing journey as well:

If you don’t want to wait for the series and are ready to get started now, I have a couple of books out on Amazon that might help at least get you fired up and ready to go:

The first one is Lessons Learned: Things I Wish I Knew Before I Wrote the Book

The second is Lessons Learned: Things I Wish I Knew Before I Published the Book

Both are Comprehensive Survival Guides to Editing and Publishing an Unforgettable Narrative.

Both are available on Amazon, and I’ve listed the links below:

https://www.amazon.com/Things-Wish-Knew-Before-Wrote/dp/B0C79MVMCY

https://www.amazon.com/Things-Wish-Knew-Before-Published/dp/B0CMLMXRL4

Until next time,

Love,

Sadie

This is part five of a 26 part series: unraveling the past from A-to-Z: exploring the layers of trauma, and covering a path toward healing.

Each chapter rewritten is a step toward healing, the deep seated wounds that bind us. T

oday, I delve into the layers of the letter “E” in my life through the lens of:

I am expressive (reconnecting with my childhood self)

I am enigmatic and an empath (unraveling the effects of trauma)

I am empowered (embracing transformation, and purpose).

Reclaiming your voice as a powerful step toward empowerment.

Through therapy, self expression, and connecting with supportive communities, you can gradually realign with your authentic self, and let your voice be heard once more.

1. 60 Best Trauma Podcasts for 2024: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/trauma_podcasts/

It is through speaking your truth, that you break the silence that once held you captive, and take ownership of your new narrative.

Thank you for being here, and thanks for making a difference in my life.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without you.

Hang in there, and know that you are loved from here to the universe and back.

Until next time, I am unconditionally yours.

All my love,

Sadie