Headscarves and Haircuts
Reply #122 - October 04, 2017, 05:18 PM
Hello everybody,
I hope you are doing well. Just wanted to update all the people who helped me through this thread, and also update anyone who was following it silently - with some really awesome things that have happened recently, in case this gives anybody hope:
- I decided to move out sooner rather than later, and was lodging somewhere temporarily (with my old secondary school teacher, in fact!) but have now found a more long term place to live, which is really lovely and a nice easy commuting distance to my workplace. Signed the contract yesterday and moving in this weekend
- I came clean to my parents about my (lack of) religious beliefs. I did this in writing - I left a letter for them when I made my secret getaway from the house. Even though it was the hardest thing I've ever done (actually... no... wait, meeting them for the first time afterwards was maybe even harder) and even though they are piling on the emotional blackmail and want me to come home, I realise it's up to me to maintain healthy boundaries and not let myself be controlled anymore now. Thankfully they haven't been violent or aggressive which does make it easier (and I told them in the letter I would take legal action necessary to protect myself if they did try to use violence to coerce me.)
- Both job and Masters are going well, and the former being practical application of the theory is especially enjoyable
- I am going bungee jumping with my boyfriend this weekend
- Life is really good!
I just wanted to say thank you to all for your advice, suggestions and support during what was one of the most transformative times of my life... Many of the things you guys commented really helped me look at the situation objectively and cemented my decision to leave and not feel terrible for wanting to pursue my own independence, freedom and happiness. I am a much much happier person for joining this forum.
I will maybe write about my story in more detail when the events are a little less raw. For now I just wanted to show my gratitude. ☺ If anyone is in a similar situation to the one I was in and ever wants to PM me to talk, I'm here for you. Lots of love to you all. Have a great week!