I forgive myself for the person I was when I was in survival mode. At that time, it was just about somehow getting through, functioning, not going down. I now understand that this version of me was born out of pain and protection and that’s okay. Today I let go of this burden and make peace with my former self. Every step, every decision has brought me here. Forgiveness means healing, and healing means growth. I accept my true self, with all its faults and all its strength.