Redefining Love

Dear Echo Breaker,

Abuse distorts what love feels like. It confuses attention with care, control with protection, and manipulation with passion. Survivors often ask: If that wasn’t love, then what is?

Love is not silent treatment. Love is not walking on eggshells. Love is not conditional affection that disappears when you set a boundary.

Real love is safe. It is mutual. It is consistent. Love listens. Love respects. Love doesn’t demand you shrink or silence yourself.

Redefining love begins with you. Practice speaking kindly to yourself. Practice forgiving your mistakes. Practice giving yourself patience. This sets the standard for what you will accept from others.

As you heal, you’ll notice counterfeit love no longer feels satisfying. You won’t fall for crumbs. You’ll hunger for respect, safety, and joy — and you’ll know you’re worthy of it.

🌱 Love isn’t something you chase. It’s something you cultivate — starting within.

If this resonated, you’re not alone — reach out to explore coaching with me.

Dr. James