A Letter To The Person Who Changed My Life!
In response to Writing 101 Day 9 task “Today, write your post as a letter. Approach it in any way you’d like!”
This letter is intended for you, I know I could have sent this to you by email, however I feel this is more for myself than it is for you. Perhaps, someday you will read this letter and understand my compulsion for writing this. Maybe you do not understand which most likely will be the case! As I said in the beginning, though this letter is intended for you, it is written more to satiate the torrid ocean of thoughts in my mind! Regardless of if you will take a moment to sit down and read this or not, I would just like to say thank you. Thank you for everything you have done, and for everything you have provided me with.
You definitely are wondering what it is that I am thanking you for? You see, I have a lot to thank you for. Since I never got a chance to say this while trying to escape from the prison that was my life with you, I am revealing all of it now!
Where do I start? And how do I say it? I do not know. In any case, I am going to give it a shot and start from the very beginning!
You made me fall in love with you and fall in love, I did. Big time! With that you taught me what the beautiful feeling of being in love is. Now that I know how exquisite that feeling is, I am hopeful of finding it again! For that education, I thank you!
Most couples my age went out having fun, on dates, traveling the world when you abandoned me in the house to go out yourself with your friends, with your mother, for your work. That abandonment taught me how it feels to be marginalized! Something I promised I will never do to another human being! For that lesson, I thank you!
You tore me away from my family and asked me to choose between you and them. I always chose you! My imprudent choices taught me the importance of learning to make a decision with your brain rather than your heart! For that learning, I thank you!
You abused me in every way possible emotionally, mentally and physically. While it aggrieved me in many ways, it also taught me the importance of standing up for my rights, for my freedom. For that training, I thank you!
You ripped me apart financially which in turn forced me to become more ambitious! That ambition landed me in a job which takes care of my every need. For that very important career lesson, I thank you!
You pulled me out of my protective shell, made me face all kinds of adversity and forced me to grow up. For that exercise, I thank you!
Most of all, I want to thank you for giving me the biggest joy I have ever known, you gave me Motherhood! You gave me my son. For that I can never repay you! For that, I whole-heartedly thank you!
I mean it when I say that I cannot thank you enough for bringing my son into my world. By doing that, you have given me a reason to wake up every morning; you have given me a purpose in my life. You have given me a hope for the future!
By deciding to stay away from our son’s life, you have allowed me to surpass my own expectations of the kind of parent I can become. You made me realize that I can play the role of a mom and dad to a tee! You gave me the realization that there is no income higher than watching his little face light up with a bright smile every time he looks at me, the pride in his eyes when he calls me mom! I wouldn’t trade that for anything in this world!
So thank you for going on with your life and being selfish enough to never try to reach out to him. As thankful as I am for giving me these life lessons, I wouldn’t want you teaching them to my son. For, in every way that you taught me these lessons, I learned a much healthier way of teaching them to my son…with love and with compassion!
Rashmi P. Menon
A Single Mother with an unbreakable passion to Live the Life! I am a Writer/Author by passion and an IT Project Manager by profession. I am also the voice of Artemis at In The Pantheon - a multi-author collaborative writing project. When not hunting as Artemis, I am busy querying agents and working on my multiple writing projects. Women Empowerment and Child Rights Advocate.
96 Comments
Catherine
That’s incredibly moving. You need to know that you just wrote a letter for many of us women who have been abused either emotionally or in the physical. I am happy you took that experience and learned from it. Hugs!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Cathe!
As they say, in the face of adversity you can either learn from t or perish with it!
I wasnt ready to perish just yet, so I opted to learn instead! 🙂
tmcasciano
Excellent!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you! 🙂
Tony
Amazing. Beautiful sentiment written with thought and compassion.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Tony! 🙂
Asta
Thank you so much for sharing your story. It was moving, it was awesome. Looking forward to reading more of your stuff.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you, glad you enjoyed the post! 🙂
Eva Prim
Dear Rashmi! I’m as sorry for you that you had to undergo such sufferings as I’m happy that it didn’t break you and that you learned to provide for yourself and to care lovingly for your son. You should be proud of yourself. Thank you for sharing! I hope your words will help other women as well to take charge of their lives and fight against violence and suppression.
MindandLifeMatters
Hi Eva, thank you for your kind words. This experience taught me a whole lot, by sharing them on this platform I’m hoping to help women who are like me and need a little reminder!
Gina Blue
I never knew how important my mental health was until he took it away. I will never allow any one to compromise my mental health.again…thank you for sharing!
Thanks for bringing me into the 21st century!
MindandLifeMatters
Absolutely! Kudos to you for having the strength to break free!
Gina Blue
Thanks! It’s not easy to do, is it!
MindandLifeMatters
Not at all easy! But totally worth it!
izabolinha
Thank you for writing! I’m still learning…;)
Turtle Hugs
MindandLifeMatters
Turtle hugs right back to you my dear! I wish you all the best! 🙂
adriennea3
Thanks for sharing your story. Very courageous
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Adrienne. 🙂
Debbie L
Words can’t adequately express how powerful and important your message is. Way to go! I’ve tweeted this important message out!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much Debbie! Thanks for sharing the post 🙂
Debbie L
You’re welcome!
Vibrant
Dear Rashmi,
You have turned many stumbling blocks into stepping stones. More than anything else this letter goes on to show that you have forgiven that person and moved on, that’s why you can talk about him and encourage others who are facing similar situation.
This article will give many people in abusive relations and PTD strength to see their situation in a whole new light and inspired to change their world for better. I have shared it on the social media.
LOve and light <3
Anand
MindandLifeMatters
That is what I hope for this article to do, Anand. To help those who need that reminder and the push to change their world. Thank you so much for sharing in the social media 🙂
Vibrant
Yes, Rashmi we hope it will help many. It’s my pleasure to share it, have a good night 🙂
Anand 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Anand! You have a good day ahead! 🙂
Vibrant
🙂 🙂
Nena
I will be sharing this as well! Very powerful, Rasmi. You are an amazing human being:)
MindandLifeMatters
Thanks a lot for sharing Nena! Appreciate it 🙂
shinepositivepower
I am teary eyed! You really are such a strong woman! I am so proud of you! From thousands of miles away, I want you to know even if we might not ever see each other, that someone here is glad you are you 🙂 You deserve what you have now as a free, modern, single mom who is AWESOME!!! My mom was abused physically, mentally, emotionally too and she was still able to show love, compassion and kindness to the man who did that to her. She said she never regretted her decision because she have us, her children. Moms like you ROCKS!!! Yes, it is better to show kindness and forgiveness to those who hurt us, it means you are the strong one and your son is really blessed to have a mom like you. 🙂 Kudos and keep loving!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much Shine! Your mom is a wonderful soul that she is able to do that. And from what I know of you, she taught you really well. You are very lucky to have a mom like that and your little one is very lucky to have you for his mom!
I agree it is indeed better to show kindness and forgiveness because it helps us move forward. 🙂
Stay blessed my dear…..love and hugs to you too ♡♡
shinepositivepower
You are very much welcome Rashmi. Supporting each other wherever we are makes us happier and stronger. Have a wonderful weekend! 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
You too darling! Have a Wonderful weekend! 🙂
Thistles and Whistles
Hi Rashmi,
I want to say how strong you are to have faced a difficult time and come out with it stronger and armed with so many lessons. I don’t know what I have done in such an abusive situation honestly but I am so proud that you took control of the situation and made a beautiful life with your son. It cannot have been easy I am sure.
You’re an inspiration for all who are going through similar situations and have shared hope and positivity through your words. Thank you! 🙂
Cheers,
Tx
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you dear! It was very difficult indeed.
In such adversity, we are faced with 2 options to either wither with it or grow with. I had to grow with it more so for my son than for myself!
So in every way I’m helping him as his mother he has already saved me by being my son! 🙂
Thistles and Whistles
I am so glad you chose the high way! You’ve paved a pathway with your inspirational blog that it’s never too late for a fresh start at life! 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Indeed, it’s never too late! Thank you again 🙂
amanda
Dear Rashmi,
Thank you for sharing your story to us. I’m really happy that you choose to see the good thing behind those awful situation. It’s not easy, I believe. But yet, in some point, it bring peace for yourself. Your son, he’s so lucky to have you.
Be happy always ^^
MindandLifeMatters
Thank You so much for your kind words, Amanda! 🙂
I’m the lucky one to have such a wonderful son in my life! 🙂
NJ
Once I read this quote by Mark Twain “Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it” and it had stayed with me 🙂 By writing this letter you have relieved yourself from the all negativity you held in your heart against that soul 🙂 You are much more happier from yesterday 🙂 Keep smiling and be strong as always 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you NJ! That is an amazing quote!
Yes, I do feel relieved! 🙂
NJ
🙂 Happy to hear this 🙂
rosemawrites
Hi there, Rashmi. I may not know you personally but your letter have shown how strong you are. I pity him because he will soon regret what he did to you and to you son. Keep your head up. You are indeed an inspiration. 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much Rose! I pity him because he does not realize what he did to himself in the process!
Arcane Owl
Hey Rashmi
It was very emotional indeed. I’m stunned by your courage and happy that you’ve move on to build a life for you and your son.
Thanks a ton for sharing this post.
Have a great day 😉
Arcane owl
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much my dear Arcane Owl! Your encouragement means a lot to me! 🙂
Arcane Owl
It is a pleasure 😉
theanonymoustalker
With EVERY new line you wrote I could feel your confidence surging.
MindandLifeMatters
Indeed! As was the case with every experience!
Becky B
oh my word, you are incredible . . . I’m in awe of your strength and where you are now.
Thank you so much for sharing so much, and thank you for inspiring us all.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Becky, for the kind and encouraging words! 🙂
Netta
Great Post! It takes a strong person to see the lesson in a difficult situation. Our most devoted and most important teachers are sometimes those who hurt us most, but when you see the lesson you can truly thank them from the heart. Very gracious of you.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you for your kind words, Netta. You are right, our teachers are mostly the ones who have created a deep impact on us!
Dr Meg Sorick
Your really are something special, my dear! Some people would crumble under such circumstances or become bitter and reclusive. You are inspiring and amazing! I am sure you will help many others as you continue your writing and blogging! I for one, am glad to be along for the ride!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Meg! I am glad I got friends like you along on this ride! Joining WordPress and sharing my experience has been the best decision I have taken! <3 🙂
jessmcombs
Wow! This is so close to home for me. Thank you for sharing this with us!
MindandLifeMatters
Glad you enjoyed the post, Jess! Welcome back, how was your break?
jessmcombs
It was good! Very relaxing and peaceful… which is something that can be hard to get around my house these days lol.
MindandLifeMatters
I can imagine! ohh I’m dying for a break from work but I guess that break will have to wait for another 2-3 months I guess!
PrinceWilsonInspires
I knew that there was something special about you. you are good with words. i respect you for that. what a lovely and affectionate post. You really understand feelings and you have the right expression for it. Sincerly i enjoyed it. More grease to your elbows.
:)Blessings.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you, Prince! You are really sweet to say that 🙂
PrinceWilsonInspires
Kindest Regards. 🙂
PrinceWilsonInspires
Am delighted to inform you that i have nominated you for the Blogger recognition award. 🙂 Please do check it out. this is the link.. http://superinspiredmoments.com/2015/09/18/blogger-recognition-award-and-the-award-goes-to/
Congratulations:) Have a blessed weekend.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you very much for the nomination! 🙂
PrinceWilsonInspires
you are welcome. Do have a blissful weekend.
Cheers:)
MindandLifeMatters
You too!
Charlie
Thank you for sharing this story. I am so happy you were strong and courageous enough to get away from this unhealthy and toxic person. This is an extremely moving text. I’ve nominated you to the Infinity Dreams Award (http://wp.me/p3M8Lk-mp). Have a nice day 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much Charlie for your kind words and the award nomination 🙂
Rashmi
Lynz Real Cooking
Thanks so much for sharing! you put it perfectly!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Lynz 🙂
Lynz Real Cooking
very brave to write this an amazing!
Gradmama2011
I am touched by your letter, and relate to it in many ways. Your strength and determination to grow in all ways suggests that your life will continue to be an inspiration to many. Your reward will be a long and rewarding lifetime…and a few decades from now you will be able to look back and celebrate your existence. You write beautifully… 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much Gradmama 🙂
That will be the best reward there ever can be!
Reeanna Lynn
Oh my goodness, this just made me cry. So wonderfully written and so poetically thought out. Thank you so much for sharing, it honestly made my day brighter!
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you, Reeanna! Glad I was able to make your day brighter! 🙂
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impossiblebebong
I could have written this to my ex whom I spent 20 years of nightmarish life before I woke up.
MindandLifeMatters
I can imagine how that must have been! I am so glad you woke up…better late than never…took me 9 years of suffering to wake up!
impossiblebebong
I have a son too. The only positive outcome of my miserable marriage that was doomed right from the start. At least you fell in love. My parents forced me to marry him so they/I can have a better life.
MindandLifeMatters
Ohh…my word…! Glad you have a son…your positivity in that adversity!
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judyjourneys
Healing follows quickly on the heels of shining light on any abuse. I thank God you and I know that. And Rashmi, thank you for the follow.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you for the kind words of encouragement 🙂
You have a wonderful blog, it’s my pleasure to follow
Indira
The best thing seems to me is that you learned from every adversity. Best letter I have read.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you Indira! It was difficult but there is something to learn in every adversity 🙂
Indira
So true dear. I love your spirit.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you, Indira, for the kind words of encouragement!
Wandering Soul
I’ve always wondered, never dared to ask. Salute your spirit! Am happy that you chose to fight. I am happy that if he was a jerk, atleast he was a jerk enough to leave you both alone to live in peace. Atleast, you and your son have each other. I can’t imagine what you must have gone through, but I do think you have a much better life now. you are the best example of overcoming adversity and coming out victorious. And for that, the credit goes only to you! Lots of hugs and blessings to you and your son.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you my dear!
We are much better off now, so thats a plus! 🙂
Hugs to you from Adi and me!
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simpledimple
Lessons of life are learned through experiences. Some are bitter while others are sweet. I loved this post. It’s a bitter-sweet one I dare say. Thank you for sharing your story. 🙂
MindandLifeMatters
Your welcome!
And thank you for stopping by! 🙂
simpledimple
My pleasure. 🙂
feelings161
We always feel that our life could have been better than it is right now, but after reading your letter, I feel there are people out in the world whose stories are so heart breaking that thanking God for our lives and little joys is not enough. I truly appreciate your courage and will power (May God give you much more!!) and of course admire the way you have sweetly belittled him.All the best.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much for your kind words!
It’s only when we experience something or open our eyes and look around do we realize that there are many people in many different situations in life. I guess that understanding helps us love our own life a bit more. Although it was difficult, I have learned to love the blessings in my life and to look ahead, and that in turn has helped me lead a content life! 🙂
Vandana Mathur
I am deeply touched by your letter. Thank you for sharing your story. It’s good that now you are happy with your son. You faced adversity with courage and came out stronger. I am sure your son will grow up to become a compassionate young man.
MindandLifeMatters
Thank you so much for the kind words, Vandana. 🙂