Relationships are essential for healing. We thrive and grow when we are loved, guided, and nurtured by others. For a long time, I didn’t fully understand the importance of this connection, but my own lived experience taught me how crucial it is. I grew up abused by 2 family members and absolutely no support from my own mother. I longed for security and understanding, often feeling disconnected from the support I desperately needed. The pain I carried made me believe that I had to face life on my own, that vulnerability was a weakness, and trust was a risk not worth taking.

But over time, I was fortunate to encounter people who helped shift this perspective. Whether it was a teacher who took the time to truly listen, or a friend who saw me for who I was, these relationships offered a lifeline. They became examples of what it meant to be loved and valued. Slowly, I began to understand that I didn’t have to carry everything alone. With guidance and support, I started to believe in myself.

This vital connection to growth was the key to learning how to stand on my own. As I developed resilience, belief, and a sense of worth, I realized that people need one another to heal and thrive. It’s through meaningful relationships that we find the strength to overcome, to rebuild, and to grow into our true selves. While independence is important, the foundation of that independence is built through connection.

No one heals in isolation. We need people in our lives who show us that we are worthy of love and that we are capable of rising above even the deepest pain.