Reclaiming Your Voice: The Power Of Telling Your Story
The courage to share your story in a safe space allows you to release the massive weight you’ve been carrying from someone else’s sin.
What if healing begins the moment you find the courage to speak? I remember how difficult it was to actually say the word “rape” to another living soul. The word itself was heavy in my mouth, suffocating me.
Why is telling your story important? There’s power in your story, even if it trembles out one word at a time, because it allows you to reclaim the years that silence has stolen from you—your voice, your freedom, your identity.
The courage to share your story in a safe space allows you to release the massive weight you’ve been carrying from someone else’s sin.
You may think, Where do I even begin? How do I start sharing something so painful? A safe space to open up about the heartache you’ve felt is incredibly healing. My go-to for processing deep pain has consistently been journaling—just you, God, and a blank page. The beauty of it is that it can be raw and unfiltered. It’s a complete purge of the darkness from deep inside you. It’s not sugar-coated or nice. It’s the stuff you only say in your head—the things you wouldn’t dare say out loud. But don’t worry—God already knows what’s in there. He can handle it. He knows your darkest thoughts, and as His child, He loves you despite them.
In addition to journaling, art, poetry, or even private voice recordings can be powerful and therapeutic ways to express what words may not yet capture.
Reclaim your voice with the help of a trusted counselor—preferably someone who specializes in sexual abuse and understands the neuroscience behind trauma. I believe a counselor who educates and helps you rediscover yourself is worth every bit of the investment.
Another safe and supportive space to share your story is within a survivor-led group, like the Shelter healing program we offer here at Trees of Hope. There’s something freeing about sharing your story with people who genuinely understand and empathize with the level of grief, pain, and anger you feel. Being in the company of brave, vulnerable women who are willing to speak up is unimaginably healing.
You don’t have to shout your story from the rooftops to reclaim your voice. Sometimes, healing begins with just a whisper—a journal entry, a tearful prayer, a quiet conversation with someone safe. Your voice matters, and when you’re ready, let it rise. One word at a time.
Prayer: Dear Lord, please give me the courage to seek a safe place to tell my story. I want to be free of this pain, shame, and anger I’ve held on to for so long. Your word says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Ps. 34:18). My heart is broken, and my spirit is crushed. Please be with me, it’s only through You I can receive healing. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Social Support:
Having a strong support system is essential to the healing journey. Whether it’s family, friends, or organizations like Trees of Hope, being surrounded by people who genuinely understand can make all the difference. Supportive relationships foster a sense of safety, understanding, and connection, reassuring survivors that they are not alone.
At Trees of Hope, we equip survivors with tools for healing and walk alongside them with care and hope. Explore our upcoming Shelter Groups in South Florida, Melbourne, Orlando, North Carolina, and New Zealand. If you’re outside these areas, check out Shelter Online, tune into our “Not Just a Hashtag” podcast, or check out our YouTube Channel @treesofhopefl. All of our resources are designed to support you, wherever you are!