Hi Emma,

Thanks for writing back in, it’s good to hear back from you and I’m so sorry to hear that you were raped again.  Are there any therapists or counselors in your community that you would be able to speak to?  It seems like you are doing a pretty good job of advocating for yourself right now even though it might not feel like it– you’re very aware of your feelings and thoughts, you know when you are isolating, you continue to reach out to the TinyBuddha community when you are really hurting and need the extra help (please keep doing this!), and you are even working through your pain by painting and doing artwork to express yourself when you are able to.  This is all incredibly impressive and it’s no small feat, either!

I really like the mandala and think it’s a great thing to take up during this time.  It’s totally natural to not feeling motivated to do anything, but you should be proud of yourself for getting through the days.  Are there other hobbies or things that allow you to be present and focused?

You’re not alone; I care about you and have been thinking of you this past week hoping that you would write back in and I’m glad that you did!  Have you been sleeping ok?

Amy