Writing Helped Me Heal
I began writing my first book before knowing that I would leave my seventh husband. By the time the divorce was final, we’d been together for twenty-five years; married for twenty. I realized that our marriage was one-sided and my needs were not being met, but I didn’t realize that he was a narcissist until eighteen years had passed. I moved out-of-state, found a therapist, and kept writing.
Midlife Magic told of the first six toxic marriages, lessons learned, and some good things about the seventh. The Prince Was Wrong was all about him. Using quotes from his letters to me made it easier to see and share examples of narcissistic behavior. Writing helped me gain clarity on what I wanted for my life. I found my voice and felt strong. Inspiration came and the words flowed. Writing that second book helped me regain personal peace. I remembered who I was again. The roller coaster ride came to an end.
Messages from My Grandmothers is the capstone of my “Toxic to Thriving” series. An unconventional memoir, I interviewed several of my deceased female ancestors through a channeler, as they previously conveyed their desire for me to write their stories. I wanted to know specifics of what it was like to be a woman in their lifetimes from the late 1700s to the late 1990s, and how they used their voices. I discovered that we shared both troublesome patterns and lovely gifts.
Through the interview and writing process, more healing happened for all of us. We rejoiced about the talents and gifts passed down through the generations. I felt able to break the cycle of repeated negative patterns. By recording our conversations through writing, I pass on their wisdom and stories of resilience to future generations.
Through this journey, I’ve learned the importance of sharing our stories, whatever they may be. Words have power. I’ve remembered my self-worth. Wounds have healed. I feel free to be creative in ways I hadn’t expected, and that brings me great joy!
