The Tale of the Tortoise and the Hare: My Journey of Recovery from Childhood Trauma

The classic story of the tortoise and the hare is a tale of a slow and steady tortoise overcoming the odds to beat the snarky and overconfident hare. This tale of time has resonated with me on such a profound level that I have used it as a guiding light and comparison to my recovery from childhood trauma. As the common phrase goes, “slow and steady wins the race”. Once again, come along and join me as I tell my version of the timeless fable, the Tortoise and the Hare.

Chapter 1: The Starting Line – Acknowledging Childhood Trauma:

As the hare begin to dart off away from the tortoise and towards the first bend, I was also in a race of my own. My journey towards recovery had just taken off and I faced the harsh realities that emanated from my childhood trauma. I accepted and acknowledged the fact that I was sexually abused and the weight of the trauma weighed me down. I came to realize that I was the tortoise, and I had a heavy shell to carry during the race.

Chapter 2: The Hare’s Dilemma – Seeking Quick Fixes:

However, I am not just the embodiment of the tortoise. I have come to realise I am the tortoise AND the hare. Embodying the impatience of the hare, I found myself turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, I would have sex with strangers and self-mutilate. I was trying to show off that I was not a victim and that I was well ahead of the tortoise. I had not a care in the world at this point in life, the tortoise could never catch up to me, and my demons will always go unanswered.

Chapter 3: The Tortoise’s Wisdom – Embracing Slow Progress:

The hare decided to take a break. He was burned out and tired but miles ahead of the tortoise. He took a nap. This nap was so long that the tortoise began to catch up. I had spent so long avoiding my demons that the pain had finally caught up. Now it is up to me to change. I must win the race. I am not the tortoise and the hare. I am the tortoise, and I am special. Embracing my spirit, I began to teach myself self-compassion, I received professional help for the first time and for the first time in the race, the tortoise was the favourite to win. I learned to find balance and patience in the months and years that followed, and the finish line was in sight.

Chapter 4: The Finish Line – Celebrating Each Milestone:

With pride and wisdom oozing from my veins, I am now able to celebrate each accomplishment in my life with a sense of pride. I have finally reached the finish line.

The story of the tortoise and the hare has become a guiding light in my recovery from childhood trauma. By gaining skills in self-compassion, mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance I have been able to navigate my path and win the race that is recovery. Thank you so much for reading and if you like what you have read and would like to read more, please see some of my favorite articles of mine below. Have a lovely day!