When we deny our story, it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending – Brene Brown
I love this quote because I know it is true. Over the many years I have been privileged to work with lives that are broken, and from my own life’s story – I know that when we push down hurt and pain, or pretend we never struggle, the hurt and the struggles own us. Maybe you’ve spent your life trying to smooth over the hurt feelings of others. But undealt with hurt turns into resentment, anger, bitterness and separation. If we truly desire to live emotionally honest, authentic and connected, our past is part of that. Owning our mistakes and failures enables us to grow and change. Courage and vulnerability never feel comfortable, but owning our stories is standing in our truth and choosing not to allow our past to define our future. I am always amazed how some women come through Destiny Haven and then want to pretend they were never here as if it is somehow shameful that they went through a residential program. Choosing to change your life when it is a mess is the bravest thing I believe a person can ever do. Entering a program knowing that it is going to take many long months to sift through the years of damage and pain is scary. Choosing then to be vulnerable and allow others into that pain is downright heroic! But when women do? We watch them emerge with grace and dignity, choosing to do whatever it takes so that they can finally write a brave new ending that is inspirational. I will never be ashamed of my story because when I finally overcame addiction 25 years ago, I know that my story has given me a much greater capacity to empathise and love unconditionally. I also know my story gives others hope that change is possible, because the woman I was when I was a heroin addict was not a pleasant person at all! I know the depths in my own heart and I know the healing touch in my life of a God who never gave up on me, who never fails me and who gave me another chance at life that I will never take for granted.
Janine Epere
CEO Destiny Haven
