This is The Story of a Girl

Do y’all remember that song “Absolutely”? I don’t remember who sings it, but I remember loving it! It is a song that has always resonated with me, and I think that is because I am a girl with a story. Everyone has their own story, a reason they ended up where they did, and I want to share some of mine. My story of how Christ became my closest friend.

I was bullied growing up. I also had good friends; in fact, I remember one of those good friends chasing the worst bully and biting her because of how she was treating me. Did that stop the bullying? No, but I felt loved and cared for as she stood up for little me. The thing is, words have power. The hurtful words that were used on me for the years of bullying (This did not stop till shortly after I got home from my mission, so like age 22) stuck. They created negative beliefs that I did not need.

For years, my self-worth was attacked. Now, luckily, I was blessed with an amazing family that loved me and stood by my side. They made sure I was loved, but most importantly, my parents taught me about my Savior. For years now, in my darkest times when I feel like no one cares, I have a Savior, a best friend by my side, helping me and reminding me of his endless love. He has never let me fall, and he has always lifted my self-worth. Reminding me that I am the daughter of a loving Heavenly Father, the daughter of a king!

I have spent years working through the negative self-talk that was brought on by the bullying. Having to remind myself that I am worthy of love outside of my family and Christ. Well, this is me taking one more step forward with courage and vulnerability. A few weeks ago, I was talking with a friend in my ward, and he brought up how our ward families are there to help us get through hard things. Connecting with others and letting them in, being vulnerable can help us heal.

I know that I do not need to hold onto these negative beliefs, and I want to share my story. I want people to know that they are not alone, and all of those anxious walls you put up can be brought down. That is the healing power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I don’t know if Little me ever thought she would get here, but I’m sure proud of the hard work she has put forth to get here and heal from the hurt with Christ by her side.

I know that I do not need to hold onto these negative beliefs, and I want to share my story. I want people to know that they are not alone, and all of those anxious walls you put up can be brought down. That is the healing power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I don’t know if Little me ever thought she would get here, but I’m sure proud of the hard work she has put forth to get here and heal from the hurt with Christ by her side.