This reflection is from a recent graduate who completed her time at Stepping Stones and moved into affordable, permanent housing!
My time at Stepping Stones has been a journey of deep healing, uncomfortable truths, and powerful self-discovery. The lessons I’ve learned here didn’t come easily—but they’ve shaped me in ways that will last a lifetime. Here are just a few of them:
Victimhood Mentality Only Destructs Any Effort You Make to Heal
Acknowledging my pain was necessary—but clinging to the identity of a victim kept me stuck. I learned that while I wasn’t responsible for what happened to me, I am responsible for my healing. Healing required courage, ownership, and the willingness to stop blaming others and start doing the hard internal work. Letting go of the victim mentality opened the door to real empowerment.
If You Keep Doing What You’ve Always Done, You’ll Keep Getting What You’ve Always Gotten
This simple truth broke open everything for me. Patterns don’t change unless I do. No amount of wishing or hoping could fix my life without action. I had to challenge my habits, my thoughts, and my coping mechanisms. Growth came when I stepped outside my comfort zone and tried new ways of thinking, reacting, and living.
I Am Stronger Than I Ever Realized
I’ve survived things I never thought I could. But beyond surviving, I’ve learned that I am capable of thriving. My strength isn’t just in what I’ve endured—it’s in my ability to feel deeply, love fully, and keep going even when the road is hard. I don’t need anyone else to tell me I’m strong. I know I am.
I Am in Charge of My Future and Responsible for My Life Choices
This is the most freeing and terrifying truth of all. My future is mine to shape. No one else is responsible for my healing, my happiness, or my growth. And while that responsibility can be heavy, it is also sacred. I get to choose how I live, how I love, and how I rise. These lessons are not just reflections—they are my truth. They are the foundation I now stand on as I step forward into my life, one choice at a time. I am not the same person who walked into Stepping Stones. I am wiser, stronger, and more grounded in who I am, what I’m capable of, and what I am worth.
If you or someone you know needs support because of domestic violence or other forms of abuse, please call our 24/7/365 helpline to speak with our advocates for support – 928-445-4673.
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