April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. I promised myself I would do more for it this year as last year I took a long hiatus from my usual advocate/activist self.

After talking with a dear friend last night I realized how much I needed that break. Let me explain… it’s been approximately 8 or 9 years since I remembered my assault. Many of those years were focused on processing and healing from it. As important as it was for me focus on it after that many years it started to become my identity.

In the process of becoming a survivor/thriver, I started to lose who I was as a whole. I’ve spent that last year focusing on finding that person. I’ve been able to enjoy life as an aunt, focus on hobbies I enjoy and just making the most of my priorities.

We are so much more than what happened to us! It’s important to process and heal from what hurt us but don’t lose yourself in the process!!

Love always – Katie Butterfly