30+ years out and hello

[LakeSunset]

I’ve just found this forum after seeking support. My abuse, which I am slowly realizing it was, occurred a long time ago. The #MeToo movement, different tv content and having a teenaged daughter have brought my memories to the forefront. Each time there’s a trigger in my life, I sit with the memories and want to talk about them, but don’t feel I can share with the people in my life. From my generation, abuse was a certain thing, but now it feels more encompassing. Consent is more discussed and a thing...I don’t think it was a thing when I was a teen. 

Thanks for having me. 
One place that always gives me solace is visiting the lake near me, especially at sunset. 
Lake Sunset

[WannaMoveOn]

3 hours ago, LakeSunset said:

I’ve just found this forum after seeking support. My abuse, which I am slowly realizing it was, occurred a long time ago. The #MeToo movement, different tv content and having a teenaged daughter have brought my memories to the forefront. Each time there’s a trigger in my life, I sit with the memories and want to talk about them, but don’t feel I can share with the people in my life. From my generation, abuse was a certain thing, but now it feels more encompassing. Consent is more discussed and a thing...I don’t think it was a thing when I was a teen. 

Thanks for having me. 
One place that always gives me solace is visiting the lake near me, especially at sunset. 
Lake Sunset

Hello LakeSunset and welcome to After Silence! 🌻

I am sorry you went on years without realizing your trauma. Your healing is still relevant, no matter the timeline. I agree on society taking on a new perspective towards the meaning of consent. We should be able to talk about it more, but it can be difficult to do with anyone. This platform is however an anonymous, safe and, from my experience, very understanding place.

We have a wide diversity of survivors on this platform, creating a wonderful support system. 

You are strong for opening up. We believe you. 

- Wanna ☀️

[missfrier]

Dear lakesunset

I am sorry for all that you have been through.   You have been so brave in reaching out to us, please know that this is never easy!   We are all here for you and we want to support you.  You're not alone in your healing journey and are always welcome to lean on us for extra support.  You can post as much or as little as you like.  We are here to support you in the way you need.  I have found this community to be very helpful.  Everyone is so understanding and non-judgmental and I am hoping you feel the same way once you've gotten to know us a little.   

All my best,
missfrier

 

[8888]

Welcome @LakeSunset to After Silence.  I’m sorry for what brought you here but I’m happy you are here reaching out for support.  Good job taking this step in your healing process.  You are not alone and what happened to you wasn’t your fault.  Take your time exploring and post when you are ready.  If you have any questions feel free to message me. 

[MeBeMary]

Hi LakeSunset,

First, may I say that I love the user name you have chosen. It immediately made me think of a beautiful sunset on the lake.

Welcome to AfterSilence. I am very sorry for the trauma you have experienced earlier in life and the realization of what it was and the struggles that come with that. I came this way a few years back, myself being 30+ years out. I denied the truth until the truth would not be denied anymore. Perhaps this is similar to how it came back to you? Healing, I have found, doesn't expire. It's not easy or fast, but it's never too late to start.

I feel we may be the same generation, because I feel there was a lack of understanding back then. Many basic facts were overlooked, it is no wonder that I thought what happened was a mistake that I made and not an abuse situation. I do think society still has a long way to go, but yes...#metoo and social media, news media and the way the world connects now, there is a voice for those like us.

I am very happy you found our community. Take your time and get comfortable and interact when you are ready. I wish you many steps forward on this journey we call healing.

Mary

[sunflowersforme]

LakeSunset,

I just joined After Silence today and have felt very alone in my story, but your post was the first one I read and I am already relieved to know that I am not as alone as I thought. I had memories come to the forefront this last November and have been struggling, to put it lightly, since then. I am already so glad that I have begun to reach out for help and have found this community. I have a feeling that we will both find the peace that we are looking for and I am here in it with you. The work is ahead but I already feel a weight has lifted off of my shoulders just by typing this. Be well and I am glad we are able to take these first steps together❤️

[LakeSunset]

@sunflowersforme Thanks for reaching out. The forum does seem very supportive and right away I too feel some relief. You are not alone. ❤️

[Struggling88]

Hi, Lake Sunset, and welcome!