News & Events
Richard’s Journey
Dad Leaving
“When my father left the family I did not feel that this had any effect on me personally as I was too young to understand; however, it had an effect on my mother and eldest brother which I had to live with for years to come.
I have constantly been abused both physically and emotionally from an early age. I can recall instances of both kinds from the age of seven or eight from both my mother and eldest brother. Having been a victim of abuse has damaged my feeling of self worth and my faith in others. After having done Odyssey I learned to accept that this was the damage and that I am no longer a victim of this abuse. I have learned that I deserve to be treated better than that.
In regards to feeling of rejection that I have felt from my father, I have written to him and he had not replied. I accept that this is his choice and I can live with that. At least I won’t have to wonder any more if maybe he did wish to know me.
How I Have Grown As An Individual
By far the most important issue that I have dealt with has been conflict resolution. I may not be the best at it but at least I don’t lean towards a violent solution and can accept confrontation and eventually work towards a compromise rather than been constantly wrapped up in win/lose situations.
As for trusting people I suppose that not a lot has changed although I am now far more willing to take risks. And I can say there are a few people I am willing to put my faith in. Without these people I would not have much of a life.”
**Richard
