a letter of compassion, love & grace

This is such a beautiful and graceful way to express to a loved one when you want to explain how you're feeling and taking responsibility for what could happen when you’re feeling activated. The key here is taking responsibility for your actions when you’re activated and recognizing that even when it feels like it’s out of control, it’s still your responsibility to repair.

Dear __________ (loved one, spouse, friend),

Sometimes when I am triggered, the past becomes the present for me. My nervous system goes into overdrive and it’s hard for me to think clearly. When this happens, my body and mind often feel under attack. It feels like I’m in danger. I might act differently or do things that I’m not proud of.

I also might do or say things that hurt you. There’s no excuse for that. When I’m this activated it can be hard for me to see things clearly. Please know that when I am able to, we will talk and process it. I want to do that with you.

I am working really hard to make sense of all of this and to be the best version of myself I can be. I really appreciate you being here, even when it is not always easy.

Love, me

Who would you say this to? Who would you write this to?

(used with permission from @sitwithwhit)