Normal. It's a relative term, or so I thought. It wasn't until I got caught up with a man who stripped me of my confidence, dignity, and trust that I realized I was no longer normal. I did things and became part of things I never thought I would have. I was content in my shell, living what life I allowed myself to live. Both my best friend and therapist had different ideas. They wanted more for me and saw to it that I wanted more, too. When life started to open new possibilities I thought I no longer deserved, it also brought back old ones I thought would never return. How do I move on from a past that won't let me go or move into a future I'm not sure I'm ready for? Am I strong enough to go after what I want and say no to those things that try to pull me in again? More importantly, will I ever be at peace with myself as I'm Striving for Normal?