There were so many years that I struggled with the overwhelming hurt of the little girl within me.

On the outside people saw the smile, the beauty, the “perfect” image that I tried so hard to sustain.

They say secrets make you sick…

I say…those secrets will grow legs and make itself known in the ugliest of ways…

My secrets manifested itself as depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, excessive control and various health issues.

Words like PTSD…Intensive outpatient therapy…and Recovery became an ongoing conversation with my Doctor.

I could no longer hide it…

The little girl in me…

The one who was crying out to be seen…

She rose up… And declared her freedom.

~ Denise