As a child life was hard. Dad drank and mom was angry. Yelling and being distant were my parents two favorite emotional skills. Mom would advance. Dad would retreat.

On a number of occasions, I tried to get my parents’ attention.”

• I am struggling in school!
• Socially, I feel awkward.
• I have questions and need support.
• Fitting-in is not working for me.

I asked for help. Tried to reach out. Pleaded. No one listened. No one cared. Life was difficult and I learned this insight. “Telling the truth doesn’t work for me.”

I told the truth. But I was unheard. And I was even told, shut up. No one wants to hear you. They basically said, fix it yourself. It was then that I concluded. “Telling the truth doesn’t work for me.”

So, instead I developed my own unique skills. They included

• Inwardly living divided
• Keeping secrets,
• Numbing my pain,
• Lying and pretending to keep the peace

Because, “Telling the truth doesn’t work for me.”

Prayer

Father, I have pain in my soul. I have hidden it all my life. I want to bring it to the light. So today I do. I am admitting this false belief has kept me trapped. Forgive me. Teach me. Bless me. Amen.

Bible

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. – Romans 12:15 (ESV)

and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32 (ESV)