Category: Personal

Posted in Blog, Creative Writing, Depression, Mental Health, Personal, Writing Prompts

Inkrement #24: Shadows of Numbness

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Writing Prompt: Describe the feeling of being numb in a poem about depression.
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In the hushed twilight of desolation’s grip,
I am an empty vessel, numbed to the core,
Adrift in the vast expanse of a desolate sea,
Where waves of despair crash upon my soul.

Once vibrant colors now dulled and faded,
Laughter’s melody echoes as a distant whisper,
And tears, imprisoned within weary eyes,
Long for release, but find only stifled cries.

The weight of melancholy settles upon my chest,
A leaden shroud, constricting every breath,
And the heart, once ablaze with fierce passion,
Now slumbers in the depths of sorrow’s embrace.

Days melt together in a monotonous haze,
As the world spins on, oblivious and indifferent,
And the rhythm of life’s symphony eludes me,
Lost in the dissonance of my fractured spirit.

Time stretches thin, like a taut thread of silk,
Bound tightly to the weight of unspoken words,
And the world marches forward, relentless,
While I stand frozen, a statue in the midst of life.

In the abyss of this numbing desolation,
I yearn for a glimmer, a spark of vitality,
To shatter the chains that bind my weary soul,
And set aflame the embers of hope once more.

But for now, I drift, a phantom of sorrow,
Inhabiting the spaces between forgotten dreams,
Longing for the sun’s caress to warm my spirit,
And breathe vibrancy into this colorless existence.

Posted in Blog, Depression, Family, Friendship, Mental Health, Personal, Reflections

Inkrement #23 The Ripple Effect: The Positive Impact of Building a Support System

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Life can and will throw some curveballs our way. And when those tough times hit, having people who genuinely care about us can make all the difference. Today, I want to share a personal story that taught me firsthand how building a support system can positively impact every aspect of our lives.

It was a few months ago, the day after my birthday, when something unexpected happened. I had been battling with depression and it was kicking my ass. On that particular day, I couldn’t find the strength or desire to respond to any of the birthday calls or texts I received. I was caught in a dark cloud that seemed impossible to escape. Little did I know, my sister, father, and niece were planning a surprise visit that would change my perspective.

My family has always been there for me, but depression has a way of making you believe you’re utterly alone, even when you’re not. As the day wore on, I isolated myself from the world, drowning in self-doubt and sadness. The weight of my emotions kept me from appreciating the love and care that surrounded me.

Unbeknownst to me, my sister had sensed my struggles and rallied the troops. She reached out to my father and convinced him to make the hour long trip with my niece. They knew I needed them, even if I didn’t realize it myself. That morning, they arrived at my doorstep, armed with birthday balloons, warm hugs, and an abundance of love.

When I opened the door and saw their familiar faces, tears streamed down my cheeks. It was in that moment that the ripple effect of building a support system became evident. Their unwavering support and their willingness to be there for me reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Their actions sent ripples through my life, touching every aspect in a profound and positive way.

Emotionally, I felt a burden being lifted from my shoulders. The weight of depression felt a little lighter knowing that I had people in my corner who genuinely cared about my well-being. Their presence alone gave me a glimmer of hope that I could overcome the darkness I was facing.

Physically, the visit energized me. We spent hours in my backyard having candid conversations about whatever came to mind. The familiar sound of laughter and casual jokes brought back a sense of normalcy and reminded me of the joy that existed beyond my inner turmoil.

Mentally, their visit was a breath of fresh air. We sat around the living room, sharing stories and memories, reminding me of the countless adventures we had experienced together. Their words and presence brought a renewed sense of purpose and reminded me of the things that truly mattered in life.

Professionally, their visit had a surprising effect as well. While writing was the furthest thing from my mind, their support and encouragement ignited a spark within me. They reminded me of my passion for storytelling, and their belief in my abilities helped me regain the confidence to pursue my dreams once more. After that, I began working on the novel idea that’s been in my head for years. It was also then that I decided to start this blog.

Their visit not only impacted me directly but also had a ripple effect on the people around me. Witnessing my family’s love and support, my friends and acquaintances began to open up about their own struggles, creating a sense of community and understanding. We formed a network of support, each one of us contributing to the positive change in one another’s lives.

Reflecting on that transformative visit, I realized the profound impact that building a support system can have. It’s so easy to forget that we are not alone in our struggles, but when we allow others to be there for us, it not only lightens our own burden but also inspires others to seek help and support.

Building a support system starts with opening up, sharing our vulnerabilities, and allowing others to lend a helping hand. It requires trust, empathy, and genuine care. It’s about fostering meaningful connections and recognizing that we all need each other to navigate life’s challenges. We also have to remember that building a support system is a reciprocal process. Just as you seek support, be ready to offer it as well. Be the cheerleader, the listener, and the pillar of strength for others. Celebrate their victories and lend a helping hand during their challenges. By giving, you create a culture of support and kindness that will always come back to you when you need it most.

To anyone out there who may be going through a tough time, my advice is simple: reach out. Don’t be afraid to let others in. Seek comfort in the company of loved ones, friends, or even support groups. Remember that you are not alone, and your struggles do not define you.

The ripple effect of building a support system cannot be underestimated. Through my own experience, I discovered the profound impact that love, care, and understanding can have on every aspect of our lives. We all have the power to create positive change, not only within ourselves but also in the lives of those around us. So, let’s be there for one another, lending an ear, a shoulder, or a helping hand. Together, we can make a difference.

Posted in Blog, Mental Health, Personal, Reflections, Therapy

Inkrement #18: Honesty vs. Transparency

Posted on by T.L. Minor

As I sat in my therapist’s cozy office, she asked a question that left me momentarily perplexed: “Do you want honesty or do you want transparency?” Having recently ended a long-term relationship, I had confidently asserted that honesty was at the top of my list of qualities I sought in a future partner. But in that moment, I realized that there might be more to it than I initially thought. Inspired by the guidance of my therapist, I embarked on a journey to understand the subtle yet significant differences between honesty and transparency.

Unveiling the Distinction:

To me, honesty and transparency always went hand in hand. What could be the difference between them when both had the same underlying principle of truth-telling? My therapist, with her characteristic wisdom, gently explained that while they indeed share common ground, they have distinct levels of truthfulness.

Honesty, as I learned, encompasses being truthful and straightforward when asked. It involves not intentionally deceiving or misleading others. When we demand honesty in a relationship, we expect our partner to speak the truth when confronted with a question or a situation. It means expressing our true feelings and thoughts without fabricating or sugarcoating them.

On the other hand, transparency goes beyond simply answering a question truthfully. It involves willingly offering relevant information without being prompted. Transparency requires laying one’s cards on the table, allowing our partner to make informed decisions based on the full picture. It’s about open communication, sharing intentions, and freely providing context.

The Playing Cards Analogy:

To illustrate the difference, my therapist used a clever analogy involving playing cards. She held a handful of cards, and when asked if she had the Queen of Hearts, she honestly admitted to having it, revealing the card as evidence. However, she emphasized that this information was only disclosed after being questioned.

In contrast, she explained that transparency is like laying all the cards on the table without prompt. She openly announced, “Hey, I have the Queen of Hearts, Ace of Spades, and 10 of Diamonds. You can decide how you want to move next.” By offering this information voluntarily, she allowed her partner to have a more thorough understanding of the situation and make decisions accordingly.

Building Trust and Understanding:

Understanding the subtle yet crucial distinction between honesty and transparency has truly blown my mind and transformed my perspective on relationships. I now realize that while honesty forms the foundation of trust, transparency strengthens and deepens it. Both qualities are vital in cultivating strong and healthy connections.

Honesty breeds trust by ensuring that our words align with our actions. It reassures our partner that they can rely on us to be truthful, even in difficult predicaments. However, it is transparency that provides the context and information necessary for our partner to truly understand us. It helps us avoid misunderstandings, enables empathy, and allows for better decision-making in the long run.

Striking the Balance:

I’ve learned that striking a balance between honesty and transparency is essential to building genuine, fulfilling relationships. Honesty sets the groundwork for trust, but transparency takes it a step further by promoting open and honest communication. By embracing transparency, we create an environment where vulnerability and understanding can flourish. We enable our partners to see us authentically, free from hidden agendas or undisclosed information. This creates an environment of mutual respect and sincerity, strengthening the emotional bond between two people.

My therapist’s insightful question unearthed a world of nuance that never dawned on me before. Honesty and transparency may seem interchangeable at first glance, but their distinction is vital in building healthy relationships. Honesty establishes trust, while transparency deepens understanding. Together, they provide a solid base for lasting connections.

I’ll carry my newfound understanding in my heart as I continue to move forward. Honesty and transparency are vital for my partner and I to build trust, understanding, and open communication on our journey together. In the words of Michelle Obama, “Whether you come from a council estate or a country estate, your success will be determined by your own confidence and fortitude.” May we all find the courage to pursue honesty and transparency, and may it lead us to the profound connections we deserve.

Posted in Blog, Personal, Reflections, Writing, Writing Prompts

Inkrement #17: Lessons Learned from Ignoring Red Flags

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Writing Prompt: Reflect on a past relationship where you ignored your intuition and the consequences that followed. Write a personal essay discussing what you learned from this experience and how it has influenced your trust in your intuition.
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Intuition knows when something is wrong. It’s our internal compass guiding us through life’s twists and turns. But what happens when we choose to ignore it? My world was already crumbling, and I couldn’t wrap my head around dealing with another crushing blow. By burying my doubts, I unknowingly set myself up for even greater devastation. In this personal essay, I want to share my experience of staying in a relationship, although I knew deep down I should’ve ended it.

I remember the moment I discovered my partner’s infidelity. It was days before my mother’s passing and my aunt’s death, three days after her funeral. During that time, I found myself torn between emotions I couldn’t fully process. My focus shifted to grieving for my loved ones, and my partner’s betrayal took a backseat in my overwhelmed mind. The world became a blur of funeral arrangements, tears, and unanswered questions. I knew the situation was fucked up, but I didn’t want to face the reality.

Grief messes with our heads, you know? It makes us do things we’ll kick ourselves for later. Amid my life falling apart, I brushed off those little gut feelings nudging me. I was like, “No way, I can’t handle any more shit right now.” I figured I’d tackle the relationship mess once the grief storm blew over. But little did I know, my intuition was getting restless, craving my attention. I stumbled through each day, time turning into a blur of chaos. Sure, my partner felt horrible and tried to make things right, but that nagging feeling in my gut just wouldn’t quit. We had agreed to start fresh and with no more solid evidence, I was stuck in a constant state of uncertainty, unable to trust his words.

Red flags, like seeds planted in the soil of our intuition, sprout into undeniable truths. They poke through the surface, demanding our attention, but we often brush them aside in favor of our comfort zone. I found myself trapped in a cycle of ignoring the warning signs that continued to present themselves. The red flags kept waving, but he skillfully sidestepped them, weaving a web of deception with his words. Finances can be a powerful force, shaping our decisions and trapping us in situations we want desperately to escape. With the cost of living skyrocketing, the thought of leaving the relationship became an unattainable joke. My job didn’t pay enough to live on my own. I didn’t have my parents’ home for refuge. My friends had their own lives and struggles to battle, so I didn’t want to be a burden to them or anyone else. I believed that staying was my only option. So I bit my tongue and tolerated the bullshit as I applied for hundreds of better-paying jobs. But as the years passed, the emotional toll grew heavier, and I withdrew into myself. My silence became a self-imposed prison. The weight of how I should’ve handled the situation trapped me. It clouded my view of a better future. Concealing my misery was a daily battle for normalcy.

You know how life works, right? Truth appears humorously at the right moment. Earlier this year, I had that moment. My partner and best friend kept an enormous secret from me. They had a one-night stand. Talk about a betrayal that cuts deep. It felt like someone took a butcher’s knife and stabbed it right into my heart, opening up all those old wounds and making me regret everything. My intuition had been screaming at me to wake up and smell the coffee, but I had let my fears, regrets, and financial situation blind me. Ignoring my gut had cost me years of happiness, authenticity, and self-respect.

After the whole truth came crashing down on me, I needed to find some sort of comfort. So, I turned to therapy and creative writing prompts for solace. It was during those moments of deep thought and self-reflection that I had a revelation. My gut feeling, my intuition, it was never wrong. The problem was me — I ignored it and refused to take action, and that’s what led me straight into a world of heartache and regret. If only I had trusted my instincts from the very beginning, I could have spared myself years of pain. But hey, no use crying over spilled milk, right? Instead, I’m making it my mission to focus on the most valuable lesson I’ve learned: listen to my intuition the very first time it whispers a warning. I’m embracing that little voice inside me and learning to heed its advice, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. Trusting my intuition has become an essential part of taking care of myself and growing as a person. It’s non-negotiable now.

As I reflect on the last three months since shit hit the fan, I acknowledge the pain and regret that accompany the choice to ignore my intuition. Life’s journey teaches us many lessons. Some learned through triumph. Others through regret. Not acting on my instincts in my last relationship tested my resilience and self-worth, but it also taught me the importance of self-trust.

While I can’t change the past, I can shape my future by embracing my intuition as a guiding force from here on out. I share my story, hoping others may find peace and inspiration in their own struggles. Please trust yourself and honor your inner voice. It knows what is best for you, even when things seem impossible. Follow your heart and learn from your experiences.

I chose this prompt because it hits close to home. We all have that little voice inside us, that gut feeling telling us when something isn’t quite right. And let me tell you, I ignored that voice in a last relationship, and Lord, did it come back to bite me. So, when I saw this prompt, it immediately resonated with me. Since I’m in a significantly better headspace right now, I wanted to write a personal essay about this experience. It’s embarrassing that I put myself in this predicament, but it is my life and I have to own up to it. Not only to hold myself accountable, but also to share what I’ve learned with others. Trusting our intuition is no joke, and I wanted to dive deep into how ignoring it affected me and how it’s permanently changed my perspective on listening to that inner voice.

Posted in Blog, Mental Health, Personal, Reflections, Writing

Inkrement #16 – Simply the Best

Posted on by T.L. Minor

The recent news of the passing of the legendary Rock & Roll icon, Tina Turner, at the age of 83 has deeply impacted music lovers across the world. As someone who has been influenced by her incredible talent and resilience throughout my life, I felt compelled to reflect on her remarkable journey. From the haunting melody of “What’s Love Got To Do With It?” that played in the background of my childhood to the powerful anthem “I Don’t Wanna Fight” that still resonates with me today, Tina Turner’s music has always been a constant presence.

Tina Turner was more than just an iconic singer and performer; she was a force to be reckoned with. Her ability to turn personal pain into something transcendent showcased her resilience and indomitable spirit. Despite enduring unspeakable challenges throughout her life, she refused to let her pain define her. Instead, she harnessed her anguish as a catalyst for personal transformation, inspiring millions around the world.

Tina Turner’s early memories of picking cotton as a child, coupled with feelings of abandonment and being unloved by her parents, painted a difficult picture of her formative years. Surviving a volatile and abusive relationship added to her burdens. Yet, throughout it all, Tina Turner’s resilience and determination to overcome prevailed. Her journey from these painful beginnings to becoming a middle-aged black woman who made her mark as the Queen of Rock & Roll is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to rise above adversity.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Tina’s story for me is the love and fulfillment she found later in life. After facing numerous challenges and triumphing over personal struggles, she discovered peace and genuine love with someone who adored her unconditionally. This profound love story brought immeasurable joy and contentment to her life, proving that true greatness and contentment can be achieved at any stage. Tina Turner’s experience challenges the belief that success and happiness must be attained within certain age limits or predetermined timelines. Her story encourages us to embrace the unexpected turns and twists that life presents. It’s okay if we haven’t achieved our dreams or found our purpose by a certain age. The path to self-discovery and fulfillment can be nonlinear, and each stage of life offers unique opportunities for growth and transformation. Tina’s life exemplifies the importance of perseverance, resilience, and remaining open to new possibilities.

Tina’s ability to turn her pain into something magical and beautiful continues to inspire many, including myself. It’s with this inspiration in mind that I started this blog. In time, I want to be able to provide solace, tools, and hope to those facing trauma. Tina’s legacy serves as a reminder of the need for diverse voices and stories of triumph over hardship. Together, we can build a resilient community founded on mutual support, where people can find strength and renewed hope as they navigate their own transformative journeys.

The world has lost an icon in Tina Turner, but her legacy will forever resonate through her music, her story, and the transformative power of her journey. As we remember her, let us carry her spirit of resilience, transformation, and unwavering pursuit of happiness with us. By embracing our own pain and using it as a catalyst for personal growth, we too can turn our lives into something magical and beautiful.

Rest in Power, Queen ❤

Posted in Blog, Creative Writing, Personal

Inkrement #14

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Dealing with the Emotional Aftermath of Betrayal

I never thought I would find myself in this situation. The shock of discovering that someone I deeply trusted and cared about wasn’t the person I thought they were has left me reeling. The pain and confusion I’m experiencing are indescribable. The feelings of hurt, betrayal, and rage are all-consuming, and I know that I have a long road ahead of me to heal and move forward. One of these days, I’ll tell the full story. But for now, I want to talk about how I’m dealing with the emotional aftermath.

The moment I uncovered the truth, a whirlwind of emotions consumed me. Anger. Heartbreak. Disbelief. Initially, I questioned my own judgment and blamed myself for not seeing the signs. It’s crucial to acknowledge and validate these emotions. As much as it sucks and no matter how much I want to bury them, I am giving myself permission to cry, scream, and feel the full weight of what I’m going through. It’s all part of the healing process. My therapist keeps reminding me to give myself grace and that it is okay to express these very valid feelings. Trying to deny and ignore them will only make me feel shittier and prolong my healing journey.

Creating a healing and supportive environment has for myself has also been vital for my journey. I’ve found solace in a quiet corner of my home, surrounded by things that bring me comfort. Lo-fi music playing in the background and the smell of lavender from my diffusers have helped create a soothing atmosphere. Taking deep breaths and practicing mindfulness have also allowed me to find moments of peace among the chaos.

Creative writing became my refuge—an avenue for expressing the inexpressible and exploring the depths of my emotions. Here are a couple of writing prompts that helped me navigate my healing journey:

  1. Creating a fictional story or poem that symbolizes the process of letting go and finding inner peace. Metaphor and imagery have allowed me to delve deeper into my emotions and explore the healing journey in a profound way.
  2. Describing a metaphorical journey where I release the weight of betrayal and rediscover my own strength. Through this exercise, I visualize myself moving forward, growing, and finding empowerment.

As I revisited my writings, I started to notice a pattern. Themes of resilience, personal growth, and a spirit that refuses to give into despair. It became clear that despite the pain, I had the power to define my own narrative and reclaim my sense of self. Writing provided a space for reflection and self-exploration, allowing me to make sense of the chaos and find glimmers of hope.

As I navigate this healing journey, I realized several strategies that have empowered me:

  1. Practicing self-care and self-compassion: I’m learning to be gentle with myself, honoring my needs, and prioritizing self-care. This includes making time for activities that bring me joy, seeking support from loved ones, and being patient with my healing process.
  2. Setting boundaries: Establishing healthy boundaries has been crucial for protecting my emotional well-being. This means eliminating contact with the person who betrayed me and creating space for my own healing.
  3. Seeking support: I’ve realized the importance of seeking support from trusted friends and professionals. Sharing my pain and experiences with empathetic listeners has provided validation and a sense of solidarity.
  4. Embracing personal growth: This experience has become an opportunity for personal growth. I’m reflecting on the lessons learned and using them to cultivate greater resilience, self-awareness, and compassion for myself and others.

Despite the shock of the betrayal, it is not the end of my story. With writing as my outlet, some thoughtful introspection, and self-care, I’m gradually regaining my power and accepting the healing process as part of my journey forward. There are going to be highs and lows. Good days and bad days. But I’m determined to find happiness and fulfillment. My progress on the road to healing continues.

Posted in Blog, Creative Writing, Personal, Reflections, Writing Prompts

Inkrement #12

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Writing Prompt: Write a letter to your younger self, acknowledging the ways you were criticized and the impact it had on you.

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To my younger self,

I’m writing this letter to you today to acknowledge the criticism that you endured and the impact it had on you. I know that the most insults and judgments thrown at you came from our mother. She would always pick apart your clothing with claims that you looked like a slut, your hair with claims that it looked unkempt, your friends with claims that they’re worthless, and your hobbies with claims that they’re childish. She tore down anything that brought you an iota of joy. And I know that it’s taken a toll on your self-esteem. I know it made you unsure of what you were supposed to enjoy or do with your life.

But I want you to know that her words are not a reflection of who you are or your worth as a person. I want you to know that it’s not your fault. You are not responsible for our mother’s insecurities or her need to control you. You are your own person. You deserve to be happy and pursue the things that put a smile on your face. You are unique and special, and your individuality is what makes you stand out. Don’t let anyone dim your light or make you feel worthless. Not even your family. You are capable of achieving greatness and I can’t wait to see all that you’ll accomplish in the years to come.

I know that you’re struggling right now. Life seems hopeless and unfair. But believe me when I say that things will get better. You will find your place in the world, and you will find people who love and support you for who you are. It’s okay to make mistakes. They’re a natural part of life and they’re what help us grow and learn. Please don’t be so hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned. Those experiences can be opportunities to learn and improve.

It’s imperative to remember that you are not defined by anyone else’s opinions or expectations. You were not born to be your mother’s minion. You have the power to create your path and define your success. Pursue your passions, no matter how big or small they may seem. You’ll be amazed at the things you can achieve when you believe in yourself.

In the years to come, you’ll see that there is no specific way to live life. Everyone’s journey is different, and what works for someone else may not work for you. Embrace your journey and trust the process. Remember that life is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s okay to take your time to figure out what you want.

Writing this letter to you has made me realize how far I’ve come. It’s a reminder that despite the hardships, I’ve been able to overcome and achieve great things. I’m proud of the person I’ve become, and I’m proud of the person you will become.

So, to my beautiful, quirky, amazing younger self, keep your head up and keep pushing forward. You are capable of great things. I love you and I believe in you.

Signed,

Your future self

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I chose this prompt because it allowed me to reflect on my childhood and acknowledge the impact it had on me as an adult. It also allowed me to give advice and encouragement to my younger self, to say things I wish I heard more of as a young girl. Writing this letter helped me recognize the progress I’ve made, celebrate how far I’ve come, and realize how much work I still have to do.

Posted in Blog, Journaling, Personal, Reflections, Writing Prompts

Inkrement #10

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Journal Prompt of the Day:
Imagine a future where you have fully healed from your trauma. What does that look like?

Imagine a future where you have fully healed from your trauma. What does that look like? For me, it’s a bright and hopeful vision that I’ve held onto for years, even when I thought healing was impossible.

Growing up with an emotionally, verbally, and sometimes physically abusive mother, I didn’t know what a healthy relationship looked like. It wasn’t until I left home, experienced shitty situationships and found myself in bad predicaments that I realized how deeply my trauma had affected me. Even then, I knew it would be a long and difficult journey to healing.

But in this future that I imagine, I am finally free. I am free from the crippling anxiety that has plagued me for years, free from the fear that has held me back in relationships and work, and free from the emotional scars that have haunted me since childhood.

In this future, I wake up feeling rested and energized. The regrets, the should’ves, the could’ves, and the would’ves no longer keep me up at all hours of the night. I no longer carry the weight of the past on my shoulders, and I am able to approach each day with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. My relationships with family and friends are strong and meaningful, and I am able to trust and love freely. I’m not afraid to express my needs and wants, and I know that my friends will listen without judgment. I’m also in a loving, supportive, and healthy romantic relationship. I know that I’m worthy of love and respect, and I no longer settle for less than I deserve.

I am also thriving in my career. I have a job that is fulfilling and challenging, and I am able to use my experiences to help others who may be going through similar struggles. I no longer wake up dreading to clock in and counting the hours until I clock out. My creativity is flowing freely, and I am able to express myself fully through my work and my hobbies.

But I think most importantly, I am at peace with myself. I no longer feel like a victim of my past, but instead, I see my trauma as a source of strength. It has given me the resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and to pursue my dreams. I am proud of who I am and what I have achieved, and I am excited about the future.

Of course, healing is not an overnight process, and setbacks will happen. But in this future that I imagine, I am equipped with the tools and the support to navigate those challenges and triggers. I have a strong sense of self-awareness, and I am able to recognize and address any negative patterns or behaviors that may arise. I’ve also learned how to express my emotions in a healthy way, and I don’t feel like I’m bottling everything up inside.

I know that this future is not guaranteed, but I also know that it is possible. With continued work and dedication to my healing journey, I believe that I can reach this place of peace and joy. In my fully healed future, I’m not defined by my trauma. It’s a part of my story, but it’s not all of it. I’m able to look back on my experiences with a sense of gratitude and understanding. I know that my experiences has shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m proud of who I am.

As I write about my fully healed future, I’m filled with a sense of hope and optimism. I know that my healing journey won’t be easy, but I also know that it’s possible. I’m committed to doing the work and taking care of myself so that I can create the future that I’ve imagined. I know that I deserve to live a life that’s free from the weight of my past hurts, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Take some time to envision your healed future. Put pen to paper, blog your thoughts, or make a vision board – whichever works best for you – and imagine what a recovered version of yourself will look like on your journey.

Posted in Blog, Novel, Personal

Inkrement #8

Posted on by T.L. Minor

I’m excited to introduce the themes of the fantasy novel that I’m currently working on. In this novel, I want to explore the possibility of redemption and forgiveness, the power of magic and spirituality, and the strength of love and connection. I talked about the premise in my last blog post.

One of the central themes of my novel is redemption and forgiveness. Two of the main characters, Topaz and Kamari, confront their own prejudices and biases and learn to see each other in a new light. Through this process, they develop a deep understanding and compassion for each other. As humans, we all make mistakes and sometimes those mistakes can have far-reaching consequences. Forgiveness and compassion are essential in healing deep wounds and bridging divides between people. I believe that this message is especially important in today’s world, where we often face polarization and divisiveness. It’s a difficult journey, but one that is ultimately rewarding.

Another theme in my novel is magic and spirituality. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of magic and how it can be used to bring hope and healing in the face of adversity. As Topaz grapples with the dark magic that has cursed her family for generations, she discovers the power of spirituality and magic in offering hope and healing in the face of trauma and adversity. I believe that the exploration of magic and spirituality can offer readers a sense of wonder and hope, reminding us that there is more to life than what we can see and touch.

Finally, love and connection are essential themes in my novel. At its core, this is a love story, but it’s not just about romantic love. It’s about the connections we make with others and how those connections can help us overcome our fears and find new paths forward. Topaz and Kamari start out as strangers, but over the course of the novel, they develop a deep and meaningful bond that helps them both grow and evolve.

As I continue to work on this novel, I’m excited to explore these themes and more in greater depth. I would love for this to inspire readers to embrace compassion and forgiveness, explore the mysteries of spirituality, and cultivate meaningful connections with others.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post, and I look forward to sharing more updates with you all soon!

Posted in Blog, Personal, Reflections, Relationships

Inkrement #6

Posted on by T.L. Minor

Two months ago, I was experiencing the life of my dreams. I was engaged to a man who made it his mission in life to keep a smile on my face. My best friend and I were planning a girls’ weekend just for the two of us to relax, de-stress, and enjoy some much-needed quality time together. But that dream was shattered when I discovered that my fiancé and my best friend had a one-night stand behind my back and were plotting to hook up again. It was like a knife had been plunged into my heart, twisted it, then pulled it out to watch me bleed. It’s like I could literally feel myself shattering in the days that followed.

A betrayal of this magnitude is one of the most traumatic experiences I have ever had. It feels like I lost everything – my partner, my best friend, and the future I had imagined for myself. The pain has been overwhelming, and at times, it still feels like I have no way to process it.

But then, I re-discovered the power of creative writing. It was always a hobby of mine, but I lost my desire to pick up a pencil over the years. At first, I was hesitant to put my feelings down on paper. It felt too raw, too personal, and too damn painful. But then I realized that writing was the only way I could make sense of what had happened and process my emotions.

I started by writing in a journal, pouring out all my feelings. The rage, the hurt, the confusion, and the sadness. It was liberating to have a safe space where I could be completely honest and not worry about being judged or misunderstood. I found that the more I wrote, the more I was able to connect with my emotions and start to process them.

As I began to feel more comfortable with writing, I started experimenting with different forms of creative writing. I wrote poetry, a couple of spoken word pieces, and I finally began writing a novel I had in mind for years. I found that each form of writing allowed me to express myself in a different way, and I could explore different aspects of my pain and emotions.

One of the most incredible things about writing was that it has allowed me to process my pain through words. When I wrote, I was able to create a narrative that made sense of what happened and helped me find meaning in my pain. I found that writing gave me a sense of control over my emotions and attempt to make sense of what happened.

Writing also allowed me to reclaim my power. After the betrayal, I felt victimized, powerless, and helpless. But it gave me a way to take control of my story and turn it into something meaningful. It allowed me to explore my emotions, connect with my pain, and eventually find a way to heal.

I started therapy last month and talking to someone on a weekly basis has also been extremely helpful. But there’s something cathartic about putting pen to paper. Through it, I’ve started to process my pain, find hope in my trauma, and reclaim my power. It hasn’t been easy, and there are times when I want to give up. But each time I put pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard, I feel like I am taking back control of my life.

The benefits of creative writing on mental health and well-being are well documented. Studies show that writing can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-awareness. But for me, it’s been an outlet – it’s been a lifeline.

If you are struggling with trauma or mental health issues, I really encourage you to try writing as a way to process your emotions. It’s scary as fuck to put your feelings down on paper or on a computer screen, but it can also be so liberating and empowering.

I will be referencing this particular experience throughout future blog entries. It’ll be bitter. It’ll be ugly. It’ll be redundant. But it’s why I’m doing this. To comprehend what occurred, come to terms with it, and move forward. If you made it through this rambling, I appreciate you. If you even choose to follow me, just a heads up of what’s in store.