By Anonymous
My story is one of transformation—from pain to peace, from despair to hope, from fear to love, and ultimately forgiveness.
For many years, I had lived in what looked like a perfect life — a comfortable home, private schools for our children, expensive trips, and every material thing we could want. But behind that image was deep psychological/emotional abuse, control, and emotional manipulation. My husband used fear and lies to turn my children away from me. He took them.
Losing them was devastating. Along this journey of suffering, there were very dark moments for me. I found myself contemplating suicide, overwhelmed by the pain and sense of loss. It felt as though the fabric of my life was unraveling, and I was left alone and broken.
And then I learned my father-in-law had sexually abused my daughter. When I realized she remained in danger, I was able to bring her with me to Canada. Here, we began the journey of safety and healing together.
Alongside my anguish during this time, I also carried a heavy burden of guilt. I felt I had failed to protect my daughter from such unimaginable harm. This guilt was suffocating, and I believed it reflected my worth as a mother. I struggled with the notion that if I had been stronger or more vigilant, perhaps I could have changed the course of events.
It was during this time of deep suffering that I turned to A Course in Miracles. The teachings began to resonate with me, offering a new perspective on my experiences. I realized that the story I had been living was not the ultimate truth.
Through the Course, I began to understand that my brothers, including my father-in-law and ex-husband, were not defined by their actions. Instead, I learned to see them as they truly are—innocent and loving souls, struggling with their own pain and illusions. This realization was not easy, but it was transformative.
As I embraced the teachings of the Course, I discovered the power of forgiveness. I understood that forgiveness is not about condoning the actions of others but freeing myself from the chains of resentment and anger. By recognizing that separation is an illusion, I began to heal.
Forgiving my father-in-law and ex-husband allowed me to extend that forgiveness to myself. I learned that I am not defined by my perceived failures, and that self-forgiveness is a crucial step on the path to healing. I came to see that my children and I are eternally joined, and that love transcends all boundaries. This understanding helped me to release my desire for revenge and to seek compassion instead. My son is still with his father, believing the stories he was told. But I hold him in my prayers every day, trusting that love will guide him home in his own time.
Today, I stand as a testament to the healing power of forgiveness, the teachings of the Course, and the first principle of miracles that says, “there is no order of difficulty among them”.
I share my story with you in the deep desire that it may inspire others in our community to embark on their own journeys of healing and forgiveness. I really hope that together, we can create a circle of love, joy, and peace, recognizing that we are all part of the same divine family and that “Nothing real can be threatened, and nothing unreal exists.”
______________________________________________________
Forgiveness is the home of miracles. The eyes of Christ deliver them to all they look upon in mercy and in love. Perception stands corrected in His sight, and what was meant to curse has come to bless. [CE W-WI.13.3:1-3]
______________________________________________________
If you enjoyed this story you might enjoy this one
Or you may be interested in delving deeper into A Course in Miracles with a community.
