The innocent version. 💕
In our lifetime, there are many versions of us. We have the adolescent version which for most is the innocent, untouched by the world’s ugly side. The purest is before the trauma before we knew of what ugly even was. We woke up and did not stress about much except if our cereal was out. I know for myself my memory only remembers a little of this version before it was ruined by having to know what deceit, being poor, abuse verbally and physically, watching turmoil with parents, walking on eggshells, being body shamed, never praised for the good, etc. even was. Trauma began for me at a young age which took my adolescent version of me away. I’ve been in survival mode majority of my life without an inkling that was what was going on. Yes, I am strong for it. Yes, I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for it. But that little girl deserved a lot better in life. That little girl deserved to be loved and praised. Today is for that little girl who I grieve for who at such a young age had to live and think like an adult. Today’s affirmation: I deserve all of the love that my younger self never received 💜 #trauma #traumahealing #womensempowerment #Lemon8 #Lemon8Diary
Reflecting on my own healing journey, I've found that reconnecting with that innocent version of myself—the one before trauma and hardships took hold—has been deeply transformative. For many of us, childhood is a complex mix of joy and pain. The adolescent self often bears silent scars from experiences like abuse, neglect, or emotional turmoil, which can shape how we view ourselves and the world around us. One powerful step toward healing is learning to recognize and comfort that inner child. I started by journaling about my younger self’s feelings and needs, writing affirmations that reinforced love and compassion. Affirmations like “I deserve kindness,” or “My past does not define me,” helped nurture a sense of safety within. This practice isn’t about ignoring past trauma but rather about honoring the part of us that still deserves love and validation. Self-empowerment grew as I shared my story within supportive communities focused on trauma healing and women’s empowerment. Connecting with others who understand the nuances of trauma helped me feel less isolated. Over time, I noticed a shift—from survival mode to a place where I could thrive emotionally and spiritually. For anyone struggling with painful memories or feeling lost in the shadows of their past, embracing that innocent version can be a key to reclaiming joy and self-worth. Remember, healing is not linear, and it’s okay to grieve the child who endured too much too soon. By nurturing our inner child, we give ourselves permission to heal, grow, and celebrate the resilience that defines us today. This journey may include therapy, creative outlets, or simply setting boundaries that protect our well-being. Ultimately, the affirmation “I deserve all of the love that my younger self never received” is a powerful declaration—one that acknowledges pain but moves courageously toward hope and restoration. It reminds us that beyond trauma, there is space for growth, self-acceptance, and genuine empowerment.