Over the past several years working with the survivors who call Dawn’s Place home, I’ve witnessed an unexpected theme emerge time and again in the recovery process: humility. It’s not flashy or loud, but its impact is profound and far-reaching, and it can be a steppingstone on the path of a lasting recovery. Humility opens the door to new perspectives and coping strategies not considered before.
For someone recovering from the trauma of sexual exploitation, it takes an incredible amount of courage to become vulnerable enough to allow humility to work in their lives. The willingness to be vulnerable can be the stepping stone for them to start — or restart — the process of recovery.
Humility in recovery often manifests as a connection with others. I’ve seen how acknowledging that we are not alone in our struggles can be incredibly empowering for survivors of traumatic experiences. There is an undeniable shift when someone shares their story and others nod in recognition. They feel seen, and realize that their experiences, while unique, share a common thread. They may feel less alone. This connection, born from the humility of sharing, becomes a powerful force in each of their healing journeys.
I, myself, am continually humbled by the resilience and strength of the women at Dawn’s Place seeking the hope of recovery from their sexual trauma. Their stories remind me that healing is about being open, willing to learn, and being brave enough to connect with others along the way. Whether it’s experienced on day one or day 101, it’s humility that often leads to the most profound transformation on their journeys. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Humility is such a powerful part of healing. Admitting struggles and seeking help is never easy, but it’s often the first step toward real transformation. I’ve seen how pride can hold people back from getting the support they need, whether it’s overcoming trauma, addiction, or other personal battles. Learning how to stop porn addiction is one of those journeys that requires self-awareness, accountability, and the right guidance. No one has to go through recovery alone—having a strong support system makes all the difference. True healing begins when we let go of shame and embrace the process of change with an open heart.