SECRET JOY 
Chapter 2: The Path to Healing

In those serene moments surrounded by nature, I found a semblance of happiness, not the loud kind filled with laughter but a quiet peace where I could scream or cry without needing an explanation. Despite becoming somewhat of a hermit during this time, I still managed to stay involved in school activities like marching band and Guard practice.

I had friends who cared about me deeply; one in particular was Cara. When I finally opened up about my struggles, her disbelief mirrored my own confusion about what I was experiencing. Sharing these burdens with her and later with my mother marked the beginning of my healing journey. It taught me an invaluable lesson: problems are lighter when shared with those we trust.

With renewed focus on my vision for the future, I understood that while the road ahead would be challenging, strength, hope, and enthusiasm would guide me through it all. My faith in Jesus became my anchor during this tumultuous journey; placing my hope in Him restored joy to my life.

It was this realisation that transformed my perspective on life’s challenges. Through faith and support from loved ones, I learned that even in the darkest times there is always a path toward healing and happiness waiting to be discovered.