We live in a complicated world. With so many voices and differing opinions, it can be paralyzing to know how, when, or even if we should stand up and speak out about our own personal experiences.
I continue to struggle to know how to approach it all.
Part of me just wants to stay in my own little bubble and keep my thoughts to myself, but another part of me just won't let that happen.
Even though I am merely adding another voice to the many shouts that are already too loud, I do want to occasionally share my own perspectives.
This past weekend was difficult.
I watched the leaders of my former church stand at the pulpit to speak in front of millions of people (including many of my own family and friends) and share the same tired rhetoric - that those who leave the church are "worldly," "led astray," not "valiant" enough, and "deceived by Satan."
I cannot just sit back and watch it happen.
The verbal assumptions are unacceptable.
Those who know my story know without a doubt that my choices have been honest, heartfelt, sincere, and based on years and years of personal experience wrestling with complicated issues.
I wholeheartedly and unequivocally (a word borrowed from my former church) claim that my choice to leave was right for me and my personal journey and NOT the work of "the devil."
I will continue to stand up, speak out, and walk away from those things that are no longer healthy for me and my family.
Because, "true wisdom and maturity is learning to stand up and gracefully walk away from situations that threaten your peace of mind, self-respect, values, morals, or self-worth."
- marcandangel (instagram)
I have too much self-respect to allow someone else to define and own my story.
Lots of love,
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