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Redefining Ourselves as Children of God
While I was growing up, I thought I deserved my parents’ verbal and physical abuse, and the bullying I endured in school. I saw myself as a stupid, ignorant, inferior being who should be punished. As a result, life was difficult. Low self-esteem and a poor body image plagued me.
People who have experienced trauma may let their experiences become a part of their identity. Fear and anger may define how they see themselves.
Our experiences can have a dramatic impact on how we see ourselves. Without realizing it, our trauma can create recordings in our heads that kick in whenever we feel challenged.
The recordings may say:
“I am too stupid to try (fill in the blank).”
“I am a failure.”
“I am incompetent at school (work, etc.)”
“I do not have enough self-confidence to try that.”
“I am so shy and plain that no one will want to marry me.”
“I am ashamed of my body and cover up as much as I can.”
Recordings like these interfered with my ability to lead my life. I was shy and awkward around the guys, especially if I liked them. When faced with challenges at work, I became so anxious that I would make stupid mistakes. The recordings crippled me in many ways.
