Yesterday, I had my first session with my new therapist. I’m really in this season of trying to understand and love the new me. I joke a lot when I tell people I’ve changed… but honestly? I’ve been having a hard time relating to folks. A lot of the things that used to excite me don’t hit the same anymore. And that’s been difficult to sit with. During the intake, she asked me about trauma. Simple question… but for the first time, I actually said some things out loud that I’ve never shared with anyone.

I’ve never seen someone react to my story before. Her face said it all. It made everything real again. Like, damn girl… you really been through it. I’ve put myself in a lot of crazy, stupid situations and I’ve survived things I buried so deep. But that day… I was just an innocent Black woman who was taken advantage of.

I won’t go into details, because I don’t want to trigger anyone but just know I see you if you’ve ever carried quiet pain like that.

Also… my heart is heavy. I lost an old coworker this weekend, and she did not deserve what happened to her. Rest peacefully, Leslie Yvette Davis. Your name is still being spoken. Your presence is still being felt. You are truly loved by so many people.

Take care of yourselves out there.

Xoxo,
Drea