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Love After the Storm: (Untold Survivor Stories)

Writer's picture: becominggracefoundbecominggracefound

Updated: 6 days ago



Mother and son

Love After the Storm: Amanda’s Story of Faith, Healing & True Love

Not all love stories start with fairy tales—but the most powerful ones are those that rise from the ashes of pain and transform into something extraordinary. Amanda (name changed for privacy) once believed in love that promised security and companionship, only to find herself trapped in a cycle of emotional and psychological abuse.

But her story didn’t end there. Through faith, perseverance, and a deep trust in God, she found the strength to rebuild her life. Today, she stands as a beacon of hope, proving that true love exists—starting with the love we give ourselves.


From Hope to Heartbreak

Like many survivors, Amanda’s story began with dreams of love, family, and a home filled with warmth. She met someone who seemed to share those dreams—someone attentive, charming, and eager to build a future together. But the red flags appeared slowly.

"Minor issues received major reactions from him. His temper would flare at the smallest things, and it got worse as time went on. He also planted negative seeds about my close friends and family—discrediting them, making me believe they had ill intentions. Looking back, I realize that he was accusing me of the very things he was doing—lying, cheating, even stealing."

She was isolated, manipulated, and made to feel responsible for his happiness. But everything changed the moment she became a mother.


The Breaking Point: A Mother’s Strength

Amanda might have endured the pain indefinitely, but everything changed the day she gave birth to her son.

"I was okay jeopardizing my own well-being for that relationship, but there was no way I was going to put my son in danger. The thought of him growing up to be like his father was devastating. That was the moment I knew I had to leave."

With the support of a close family member, Amanda took the first steps toward freedom. Separating herself from the toxic environment allowed her to see what love should look like—and what it never should.


Faith, Healing & Learning to Trust Again

The journey to healing wasn’t easy. Shame, questions from others, and emotional triggers followed her even after she left.

"At first, people wanted to ask questions and hear the full story. While I knew they meant well, I felt so much shame. Over time, I realized that I didn’t owe anyone an explanation for my survival. Instead of reliving my trauma, I started directing people to books, advocacy groups, and resources."

Healing wasn’t instant, but Amanda found peace through her faith in Jesus.

"Jesus. Developing a personal relationship with the Lord and eagerly seeking His will provided me with so much confidence and hope."

She found comfort in prayer, journaling, and setting realistic expectations for herself as she worked through the trauma.

"As the years have gone on, I’ve had to learn how to recognize and manage my triggers. I still find myself reacting to things, and it can be frustrating when I feel like I’m not in control of my emotions. But I’ve learned to let myself release those feelings without taking them out on others. Prayer, journaling, and self-reflection have helped me so much."

Through her faith, Amanda has come to understand that her strengths—her kindness, trust, and forgiving nature—were never weaknesses.

"I learned that the devil will use people to take advantage of the gifts God gave me. But through the Holy Spirit, I now know how to use my gifts wisely and exercise discernment in my relationships."

A Love Story Redeemed

Amanda’s story didn’t end with heartbreak. Today, she has been happily married for 15 years.

"My husband adopted my son, and we built a family together. We added three more boys, and our home is filled with love and joy. My marriage is a testament to how God heals and redeems. I made mistakes, but God never locked me in my shame—He blessed me beyond my wildest dreams."

She is living proof that one bad relationship does not define your future.

"I never stopped believing in the marriage I knew God had for me. I didn’t let one bad man stand in the way of my happiness and my potential."

A Message for Those Still Struggling

To anyone feeling trapped, Amanda has one message:

💜 "People will help you. You don’t have to have the perfect exit strategy—just take the first step."

"The security your abuser claims only exists with them is a lie. There are good people out there who will help you find shelter, a job, childcare, or whatever you need to take the next step. And they won’t ask for anything in return. Not every act of kindness comes with strings attached. Trust people. Trust God."

If you or someone you know is in an unhealthy relationship, Becoming Grace Foundation is here to help. You are not alone. We are working to build a community of peer support for long term healing. Contact us to get connected for upcoming healing events you can join in on! Visit www.BecomingGraceFoundation.org for support, resources, and a community that believes in your future. #HopeAfterAbuse

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