By Jennifer Brockie | Host of the Survival Revival website and podcast
Escaping harm is often spoken about as the moment a survivor finally becomes free.
Yet survival, in many ways, is only the beginning.
For those who have endured abuse, violence, or trauma, leaving the situation does not simply erase what has happened.
The body remembers.
The mind remembers.
And the heart must gradually learn that the danger has passed.
Healing is rarely a straight path.
There are moments of strength alongside moments of uncertainty.
One day may bring clarity and confidence; the next may awaken memories that feel as vivid as when they were first formed.
This is not weakness … it is part of the deeply human process of recovering from pain and learning to feel safe again.
Survivors are often required to rebuild things many people take for granted: trust, security, identity, and sometimes even the belief they are worthy of happiness.
Yet within that rebuilding lies something extraordinary … resilience.
Time and again, survivors uncover a quiet courage that carried them through their darkest moments.
That same courage can become the foundation for healing, personal growth, and, eventually, hope.
Community also plays a vital role in this journey.
Compassionate friends, supportive neighbours and safe spaces can make the path feel far less isolating.
Healing seldom happens alone.
When survivors are met with kindness instead of judgement, and encouragement instead of doubt, something powerful begins to happen … they start to believe in their future once more.
Survival is not the final chapter of the story.
It is the beginning of a new one.
Subscribe to stay up-to-date with news from across Logan. You’ll receive a link to our digital newspaper direct to your inbox each week. It’s free.
