Abuse is not always visible. It doesn’t always leave bruises, and it doesn’t always involve raised voices or broken objects. Abuse can be emotional, psychological, verbal, financial, spiritual, or physical—and it often happens gradually, behind closed doors, to people you would never expect. Abuse is about power and control. It can look like manipulation, intimidation, isolation, constant criticism, or making someone feel responsible for the harm being done to them. Over time, abuse chips away at a person’s sense of identity, safety, and self-worth. So why is it so hard to overcome? Because abuse: - Rewires how a person sees themselves - Creates fear, shame, and self-blame - Often comes from someone they love or trust - Is followed by cycles of apology, promises, and hope - Leaves emotional scars long after the situation ends Healing from abuse is not about “just leaving.” It’s about unlearning survival mode, rebuilding confidence, restoring boundaries, and remembering who you were before the harm—and who you are becoming now. If this speaks to you, know this: what happened to you does not define you. Healing is possible, and you do not have to walk that journey alone. Her Story, The Gathering Inc. exists to create safe spaces for healing, education, and empowerment—because every story matters, and every woman deserves support. #HerStoryTheGathering#AbuseAwareness#HealingJourney#YouAreNotAlone

visit www.herstorythegathering.com

Women are not the only ones who experience abuse or hardship. Men and women alike have faced challenges, pain, and silent battles—things they were forced to push through, endure, and ultimately overcome. Every story matters, and every journey deserves to be seen and heard.

Dr. Angie Williams-McMichael for NC House District 60 (Part 2)

Dr. Angie Williams-McMichael for NC House District 60 (Part 1)