Getting Started

[Lacedwithpain]

Hello! I'm brand new here. Nervous! I imagine everyone is when they first come here. I am happy to have found after silence. Really in need of a safe place to communicate with people who understand how confusing everything is. My therapist recommended this site and said I might be able to find some encouraging people here. Hoping to meet some of you and draw inspiration from your courage.

[euca]

Welcome! I was nervous when I first joined as well but I can truly say this place has helped me so much. I hope the same for you. It helps to know you are not alone and we do try to encourage each other. See you round the boards.

[patriciag]

laced, welcome , like euca says we are all nervous when we joined. this is a safe place

Patricia

[Minerba]

Hello Laced, welcome. You are not alone. I'm sorry about what brought you here. It was not your fault. It was not fair.

This group on-line is a good source of support. There is also a lot of information you can read.

How is your support system? Do you have family members and/or friends who are supportive of you? Pets? I'm glad you are seeing a counsellor.

It is normal to feel the way you are feeling at present.

Healing is a journey and takes time. Healing is possible. Go at your own pace. It is okay to take care of yourself.

May you be well.

[reglois]

if ok

[MeBeMary]

Hi Laced,

Welcome to AS. You have found a very supportive site with many kind and understanding members. Yes, many of us feel that same way when we first come. Reaching out is a big step, but one I hope you don't regret. It's ok to take your time and become comfortable. You won't be rushed and you won't be judged. What happened to you was not your fault, and now you found a caring group and are not alone! I wish you well on your healing journey.

Mary

[Lacedwithpain]

Thank you so much for saying hello and welcoming me here. Really nice to hear that healing is possible. Right now it feels like healing is never going to happen.

[chant2012]

Hello! I'm brand new here. Nervous! I imagine everyone is when they first come here. I am happy to have found after silence. Really in need of a safe place to communicate with people who understand how confusing everything is. My therapist recommended this site and said I might be able to find some encouraging people here. Hoping to meet some of you and draw inspiration from your courage.

Hello Laced. Welcome to AS! It is my wish that you find this site as helpful and healing as I have in my healing journey.

I am part of the NST (Newbie Support Team). What that means is that I (or any of the mods/admins/NST) can help/direct you as you learn how to use the forums. Should you have questions, feel free to send a PM to any one of the AS staff.

You've taken a huge step in reaching out. This is a big step in healing from abuse of any kind. Take all the time you need in sharing.

Know that you are not alone.

Am listening and validating you and your experiences.

Here is a link to the board guidelines and rules:

http://www.aftersilence.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=194#entry685

Here is a link regarding some privacy/safety issues that are helpful:

http://www.aftersilence.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=27269#entry218846

Sending healing energy your way.

~Chantel~