Recovery from Abusive Groups Page 62
As for myself, I remember sitting in my room and discussing my confusion
about church and religion with God that first year I was home. I loved God and
nothing could take that truth away. But how I chose to express that love and
service was not going to be dictated to me again. I knew that God was big
enough to touch my life without the religion I had once known. I asked God to
honor my pain, to accept my weaknesses, and to forgive me for not returning to
the church of my youth. I promised God I would love generously and with
wisdom and that I would always do the best I could with my life, I have kept
that promise.
This issue can be a true test of faith for a family and their religion. I only want
to offer the thought that you need to let go and trust God to work in your loved
one's life and not to push this issue, especially with a bruised and hurt loved
one. God can work in his or her life without the formalities of religion.
Summary
You can be a critical part of a speedy and healthy recovery by providing an
accepting and nurturing environment. Healing will take a lot of time. Do not
control or be overprotective. Let go of the times together that were stolen from
you and grieve your loss. Trust that in time with the right support and
information your loved one can move on with life.
As for myself, I remember sitting in my room and discussing my confusion
about church and religion with God that first year I was home. I loved God and
nothing could take that truth away. But how I chose to express that love and
service was not going to be dictated to me again. I knew that God was big
enough to touch my life without the religion I had once known. I asked God to
honor my pain, to accept my weaknesses, and to forgive me for not returning to
the church of my youth. I promised God I would love generously and with
wisdom and that I would always do the best I could with my life, I have kept
that promise.
This issue can be a true test of faith for a family and their religion. I only want
to offer the thought that you need to let go and trust God to work in your loved
one's life and not to push this issue, especially with a bruised and hurt loved
one. God can work in his or her life without the formalities of religion.
Summary
You can be a critical part of a speedy and healthy recovery by providing an
accepting and nurturing environment. Healing will take a lot of time. Do not
control or be overprotective. Let go of the times together that were stolen from
you and grieve your loss. Trust that in time with the right support and
information your loved one can move on with life.
