15 Comments
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Michele Peters's avatar

This is part of my story I haven’t shared much. Shame has a way of convincing me to hide pieces of myself. But when I started writing and really digging in, I realized there’s beauty to be found in all my experiences.

Thank you, @Rachel Kramer Bussel and @Open Secrets Magazine for sharing part of mine.

Open Secrets Magazine's avatar

We’re honored to publish your story, Michele!

Dianne Moritz's avatar

As I learned in ACOA and ALANON, we are only as sick as our secrets. Keep speaking your truth.

Sigrid's avatar

Love ♥️ for Alex and all the women like her ♥️

Michele Peters's avatar

Women are powerful. Collectively? Unstoppable! Thank you for reading.

Charrise McCrorey's avatar

Michele, you inspire me! Shame has stolen women’s voices for centuries. I’m glad you found your way.

Michele Peters's avatar

We women have such powerful stories to tell, the real shame is in hiding them. I appreciate you, Charrise.

Denise Cottingham's avatar

Beautiful. Powerful. Solid. Round. A combination of goosebumps and light tears in deep recognition.

Thank you.

Michele Peters's avatar

Thank you, Denise.

sallie reynolds's avatar

This is wonderful. Blessings on Alex, and on you, for your courage! Inspiring.

Michele Peters's avatar

Thank you so much, Sallie. ♥

Hy-Ena's avatar

This is incredible, thank you for sharing this story and how how people, especially women, can build community even in what seems at first to be the most impossible of places. I'm so glad you reached back out to Alex, it was so special learning about the bond you shared. This is what women supporting women should look like 🥹

Michele Peters's avatar

Thank you so much for reading it. Women are so powerful, especially when they hold each other up. ♥

Dianne Moritz's avatar

Wow, 2 published essays in one day. Huge congrats! You found your way and met empowered women who offered help when needed. Extraordinary!

Michele Peters's avatar

It is a special Monday, indeed. Thank you for being here, Dianne.