I am a sexual abuse survivor. Due to the abuse, there have been beliefs and values I have adopted wherein I have consistently made poor life decisions. These decisions, thankfully, were only in the area of relationships and choosing a partner. Because I did not feel worthy of anything, I always chose men who have been abusive in one way or another. After looking inward and doing A LOT of self care and love, I am no longer defined by what happened to me in my childhood. Am I perfect and making awesome decisions  of the time, absolutely not but I do know my worth and have become so much better at setting healthy boundaries. Self reflection and looking at myself was not fun in any way. It was dark, scary and lonely. There were times it got so difficult that I wanted to give up;but, decided that was never going to be an option and that the best thing I could do is live and love life to the fullest extent. All of those who contributed to my journey, whether it be a negative or positive influence, I am equally thankful for. I am still most definitely a work in progress as there is no such thing as perfection; but, I no longer allow my past to define and control who I am or aspire to be!