Thread by @cindywangbrandt

I would have never chosen evangelicalism for my upbringing, nor would I ever wish religious trauma on anyone. I work hard everyday to make sure children are not spiritually abused. #ParentingForward

BUT, deconstructing from evangelicalism has taught me many life skills

I know how to interrogate stories told about me. Beyond evangelicalism, I retain this skill so I remain critical of narratives that impact the way I live my life. It's not always easy b/c we breathe the air we breathe, but I've wrested from one Story before, I can do it again.

I know how to lose friends, gain new ones, or push pause until healing has taken place, or boundaries has been established.

I know that toxic cycles can end with me. That just because we've grown up a certain way doesn't mean we have to go to our grave in the same system. As we continue to learn new information, we can change. This is helpful beyond faith shifting.

I know how to DO HARD THINGS!! I'm a survivor of religious trauma. My body keeps the score but I know how to speak gently to my body, love her better, and face whatever struggles with more courage and grace.