Dear Tawnya

The following is a letter I wrote on the urging of my life coach, Jennifer Priest. To give me a better perspective on my situation and show me how to be compassionate to myself, she asked me to write a letter to myself as though I were giving advice to a dear friend. Here is the result.

Dear Tawnya,

This is a hard time. Just remember - it will get better. You’ll have days where everything goes wrong. All at the same time. But you are strong and you can make it.

You might do things you regret. Don’t beat yourself up. Learn from your mistakes and move on.

Accept help from those that love you. It doesn’t make you weak. It makes you a part of a community.

Give yourself time to grieve. When the grief comes, let it happen. The tears wash away the poison. When it’s over, you’ll feel clear, calm, strong. Don’t give up on yourself. You are special and unique.

The way he treated you is a reflection of him, not you. Allow yourself to feel the pain. Cry over memories and dreams lost. Get it out of your system so you can heal and move on.

Don’t be afraid to love again. But remember, the right relationship is right today and in a year from today. No need to rush down the same path. Enjoy what comes your way and savor the moments.

Don’t settle. Don’t allow yourself to be treated disrespectfully. Listen to your inner voice.

Remember. You need to heal fully to give fully. Don’t feel bad about what seems beyond your ability to do and give. Someday, you will get there. If you allow yourself to heal, the strength will come.

Love yourself. Take time for yourself. Listen when your body and spirit tell you what you need. Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into more than what you are comfortable with doing.

You can take care of you and your children. You are stronger than you realize. Give yourself time to let that strength shine.

Love you always,

Tawnya