Crista Edwards Dougherty

“You will never let go of the past by ignoring the most painful thing the person you loved has done to you. When you begin to minimize it, second guess yourself and others, ignore it or even pretend it didn't happen you cheat yourself out of healing. Naturally, your mind would rather believe the lies you are telling it, rather than accept the truth. The soul has a way of protecting itself from trauma, but if left in denial there is no growth or change. Healing requires going to that place you avoid and asking yourself why you are so afraid to accept the reality of what happened to you? Why have you minimized it like this person has wanted you to? What is it about your self esteem that allows you to continue being a doormat?”
― Shannon L. Alder

“When people don't tell you the truth what they really are saying is they don't value you or their relationship with you enough to be honest.”
― Shannon L. Alder

“The day I found my smile again was when I stood in my own storm and danced with my tribe.”
― Shannon L. Alder

“Happy people can look back and say they chose their life, not settled for it.”
― Shannon L. Alder