The Power of Acceptance

During my photography travels in India, I experienced physical abuse at the hands of my partner. It was shocking for me; I had never faced such violence before. Initially, I was in disbelief, which quickly turned into heartbreak. I made the decision to leave him, but in response, he attempted to take my life.

I fled to my parents’ home, seeking refuge and healing before returning to Los Angeles, the place I had made home over the last fourteen years. At their home, however, I faced judgment for still having feelings for a man who had hurt me. My family and friends seemed to believe that the act of violence should have erased the deep love I had felt for him over the time we were together.

Once I reached Los Angeles, I stayed with friends, Jeffrey and Pamela. During a walk at the Huntington Gardens, Jeffrey asked me, “Do you still love him?” I nodded. He then posed a surprising question, “Do you want to go into therapy with him?”

That question struck me. The thought of returning to my abusive partner was unsettling, and instead of feeling ashamed, it prompted me to reflect deeply. After some contemplation, I answered, “No, I can’t go to therapy with him. He doesn’t see what he did as wrong.”

In that moment, I found clarity. My healing truly began that day, and I was finally able to let him go completely.

This experience highlighted the importance of acceptance and asking the right questions. People act based on their own life experiences and current awareness. When we judge or shame them, we only push them into denial, preventing any chance for healing or growth. Accepting that everyone is on their unique journey allows us to truly support one another in healing.