Talk It Out

MY SEARCH FOR LOVE

I was raised by my mom in a single-parent home on the south side of Abilene, Texas. I was the only daughter that survived out of five girls, and my father visited periodically. My childhood memories were joyful, pleasant, and filled with fun adventures with the neighborhood kids. In retrospect, however, I believe the lack of developing a good and solid relationship with my father affected my self-esteem and tremendously impacted my ability to develop good and healthy relationships with men.

I met the love of my life at an early age, dated for several years, and then married at the age of 19.  I was married for 16 years and had two wonderful children, a son and daughter. I divorced after 16 years of marriage. After the divorce, I suffered from depression and a low self-esteem.  The fact that I did not have the opportunity to fulfill my personal dream of attending college and becoming a nurse, contributed to my depression.

Motherhood and the related responsibilities and challenges made life more difficult. My life did not reflect the fairy tale dreams and expectations that I had imaged. I felt confined, and my role as a mother and wife was more dutiful than cherished.  Furthermore, I did not have the skills necessary to handle daily conflicts or express my feelings.

I sought love in the wrong places and for the wrong reasons.  I hoped for financial success, fame, and fortune. I entered into unmarried relationships, where I sacrificed my personal values and morals.

I dated distinguished men– those that were highly visible in the community and economically successful, one of which was my “knight in shinning armor”. This relationship lasted 13 years, and I was experiencing what I envisioned as my fairy tale. However, due to infidelity, the relationship ended, and I became devastated and emotionally distressed.  I attempted suicide, but counseling saved my life.

Throughout my life, I engaged in more relationships where my partner was unfaithful. When a relationship failed, it was difficult to release it. I spiraled into feelings of loss, anxiety, fear of loneliness, isolation, and emotional distress. I experienced the degradation of my character, devastation and emotional breakdowns.

I struggled many years as a single parent; however, through prayer, determination, and hope, my life became manageable and enjoyable.

I re-entered counseling which taught me to focus on healthy relationships and to clearly communicate my needs to my partner. If my partner did not conform to my needs, I was able to determine whether or not the relationship was right for me. More importantly, I learned the need to love and help myself before I could successfully love another person. I no longer sacrificed my morals and values for the sake of “having a relationship”.

I set goals for myself and became successful. My self-esteem improved and I was able to establish a meaningful and enriched life. I no longer rely on others for my happiness or success.

My new self is thankful because I am full of joy and happiness regardless of whether I am single or married. I am healed from all oppression, depression, and insecurity. I am a woman of integrity and strength. I am beautiful and wonderfully made.

Today,  I no longer fear life. I can experience good relationships and I know when to end and release an unhealthy relationship without being devastated.

I would like to thank my counselors, mentors, family and friends for allowing me to Talk-It-Out.

Talk-it-out Relationship Education and Counseling services is committed to providing superior education and counseling services. We are dedicated to providing skills that will enhance your relationships and provide a kick-start in managing and successfully enjoying your life.

Use Talk-it-Out to learn:

•    How to love yourself.
•    Effective communication skills.
•    Good stewardship.
•    How to establish boundaries and barriers.
•    Trust your inner feelings.
•    Release unhealthy relationships.
•    Understand your self-worth.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you and meet your relationship education and counseling needs.

Dianna Nash, M.A.O.M.
Relationship Educator
Executive Director/Founder
Talk It Out Relationship Education Services, Inc.