There comes a point in healing when the heart still yearns for something sacred – but not at cost of your autonomy. You’ve seen what happens when belief is weaponized. Community becomes control, and leaders demand allegiance instead of inspiring by example. But you still believe in something more – or wish you could. Perhaps a nameless force for now – one of love. An elusive mystery whispering through the cosmos…

Wanting spiritual connection after religious harm is not naïve. It’s brave! 

True community will not impose erasure of doubts or edit your story to fit in. Faith will not demand abandonment of critical thinking, or that you sever ties with loved ones. It’ll never mock your wounds or view trauma as proof of rebellion. Instead, faith will make room for unanswered questions. Listen without fumbling for solutions time alone might heal. New perspective would welcome the full, unpolished truth of where things are, and await your becoming.

Healthy spirituality does not require submission. It invites exploration. It doesn’t shame your past, rather helps integrate it. And it never demands one sell their soul for belonging.

Finding this kind of space may take time. You might visit a few communities that feel too – something – churches and people echoing patterns of pressure or performative gestures. Don’t let that discourage you. You’ve learned to recognize red flags. Trust that.

Ask yourself: 
Do I feel safe here? 
Do I feel seen? 
Is there room for me to grow without fear? 

There are communities – quiet, brave circles  – formed by others who’ve walked similar coals, deciding they’d never burn again. Societies led by compassion, not control. Havens where faith can breathe, evolve, and your feet find rest.

You’re allowed to redefine the meaning of sacred – reclaim connection to the divine – however that should manifest. And you’re permitted to do so without shame, undue influence and fear of exile.

Healing doesn’t have to reside in isolation. Sometimes, it begins in the form of new friends become family. Those who not only accept your history, but encourage and celebrate your journey. 

“A flower alone may wither, but together, even dry lands become Eden.” 

— ReLOVution