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We all have moments in life that test our resolve—moments that bring us face-to-face with our deepest fears and past traumas. For me, one such moment came during a recent family trip to Maui. As I approached the TSA checkpoint, the anticipation was terrifying. My last flight to Chicago had ended with me being randomly selected for a search, a situation that brought up intense emotions for me as an adult survivor of childhood trauma. What followed was an experience that taught me invaluable lessons about inner strength, resilience, and the power of self-compassion.
The Unexpected Trial
The memory of that previous search was still fresh in my mind, a reminder of how deeply such experiences can affect us. Being searched felt invasive, and as someone with a history of trauma, it was more than just uncomfortable—it was a trigger that threatened to unravel all the progress I had made in my healing journey.
As I stood in line at the Maui airport, the fear of being selected for another search consumed me. My heart raced as I replayed the Chicago incident in my mind. During that search, I had prayed under my breath, speaking in tongues as I sought comfort and clarity from a higher power. I was also beginning a fast at the time, driven by a deep desire to understand my life’s purpose. Despite my fears, I knew that this was another opportunity to apply everything I had been learning about emotional wellness and self-compassion.
The Moment of Truth when Navigating Triggers
When the TSA agent announced that I had been selected for a search, it felt like my worst nightmare was coming true. The agent offered me the option to go to a private room, but the thought of being in a confined space for this search was even more distressing. I knew I had to face this situation head-on.
In that moment, I decided that my fear would not own me. I reminded myself that my true nature, my higher self, was powerful. This event was just a small blip in the grand picture of my life, a temporary challenge that I could overcome. I reframed the situation, talking to my inner child and assuring her that while this was hard, it was not a repeat of the past. I told her, "I am here with you, and we will get through this together."
As the search began, I felt a surge of inner grit and conviction. I stared the TSA agent in her eyes, silently conveying the pain and fear this situation brought up for me. The search was thorough and invasive, but I focused on the bigger picture. I wasn’t pleasant or polite, which is something I usually try to be because of my instinct to please people. But this time, I allowed myself to be real and authentic. The agent seemed to understand, and while she did her job, there was an unspoken exchange between us—a recognition of the difficult position we were both in.
The Victory Within
Although the search was worse than I had anticipated, something unexpected happened. As the search concluded, I felt a sense of pride and resilience. I had faced a trigger that could have easily overwhelmed me, but instead, I stood my ground. I had honored my emotions, used my tools of self-compassion, and emerged stronger on the other side.
I gathered my belongings, put on my shoes, and walked away feeling alone but also deeply proud of myself. It was a reminder that the internal battles we fight—those moments of struggle and triumph within—are worth celebrating and honoring.
The Path Forward
This experience was a powerful lesson in understanding my triggers, valuing my worth, and pulling from a higher power beyond myself. It reinforced three of my "5 Secrets to Thriving": Inner Harmony, Growth Mindset, and Spiritual Fulfillment. And of course, it reminded me of the importance of Shining My Light, no matter the circumstances.
For anyone reading this who has faced similar triggers, I want you to know that you have a choice. When faced with a difficult situation, you can decide which path to take. Will you choose the path that leads to the future you deserve, or will you let past injustices dictate your present? This choice isn’t always easy or even possible without deep inner work—validating yourself, showing self-compassion, and rewriting the narratives that no longer serve you.
Conclusion
We all have a light that deserves to shine, no matter what we’ve endured. This recent flight was a reminder that while we can’t always control what happens to us, we can control how we respond and navigate triggers that may arise. I don’t expect myself to be completely over it, but I do expect that I will be there for myself, ready to use my tools and resources to care for my emotional well-being.
My hope for you is to cultivate a beautiful relationship with yourself—one of gentleness, presence, awareness, and active self-compassion. Remember, it’s the internal struggles that should be celebrated, for they are the battles that truly define our strength.
Takeaway:
Triggers can be powerful, but so are you. Recognize that you have the strength to choose how you respond, and that choice is a testament to your resilience.
Self-compassion isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a practice that can help you navigate even the most difficult moments.
Your light deserves to shine, regardless of the challenges you face. Keep showing up for yourself, and let your inner strength guide you through.
For more information on dealing with triggers, visit this resource from Psychology Today.
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With Love and Respect,
Natalie Amey
Mom & Wife | #1 Bestselling Author | Founder
“My mission is to empower you to thrive through self-care, creative healing, and personal growth, helping you build a balanced, fulfilling life that radiates beyond expectations.”
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