I want the pain of my abuse to have meaning. I feel it, and for too long have avoided it with addiction and denial. It started when I was still a child, and I really didn't face any of it until I was 29. Now I want to find ways for it to make me stronger, not self destructive. Years into recovery and it still grabs my gut, the flashbacks still beat me down and leave me feeling like a crushed bird. I've heard it said that we can turn our suffering and pain into meaning, and come out stronger for it. I think if I can accomplish this I will stop feeling and acting like a victim. Has anyone had success with this? I'd love some ideas and insight.

thanks.

mtd