In this episode, I share a harrowing experience where my minister crossed the line, touching me inappropriately and making suggestive advances. I talk about the overwhelming guilt and shame I felt, believing it was my fault, and how this abuse affected my emotional well-being for years. What made it even harder was the fear that no one would believe me—after all, he was a trusted figure.
The trauma of this experience is just one piece of the bigger picture. Growing up in a cult, I was constantly navigating an environment of control, manipulation, and confusion. The shame and guilt I carried, both from this abuse and my upbringing, shaped how I viewed myself and the world for years. This episode reflects on how deep-rooted trauma can affect every aspect of life, making it incredibly difficult to shift from merely surviving to thriving. Healing from this kind of trauma isn’t linear, and the emotional weight of it can feel suffocating, especially when you’re left questioning your worth and struggling to break free from the lasting effects of a lifetime of control.
The perspectives shared on HOW TO LEAVE A CULT are personal and do not necessarily represent the official stance of the podcast. The opinions of our guests, sponsors, or authors are their own and should not be interpreted as an endorsement or condemnation. This podcast is a platform for diverse voices, and the content is not intended to disparage any religion, group, organization, or individual. Remember, it's okay to have different views, but let's keep it respectful. Nobody's upset with you; just remember, let's avoid any culty shenanigans.
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