After putting up a question box on social media, I was moved by how many of our healing journeys mirror each other, even when our circumstances differ. In this episode, I share about my second date in the 52 Dates project (a fantasy book club!), reflect on the two-year anniversary of my divorce, and answer your questions about rebuilding trust, handling overwhelm, and finding light in uncertain times. Whether you're taking yourself to Paris on what would have been an anniversary, gathering the courage to file divorce papers, or just trying to stay engaged with the world without drowning in it - this episode is a reminder that you're not alone in doing the messy, necessary work of growth. Plus: journal prompts for processing friendship betrayal and relationship transitions, and as always, today's glimmers.

Topics Covered:

- Second date of the 52 Dates project: Fantasy Book Club experience

- Navigating social anxiety and new environments

- Anniversary reactions and body memories

- Processing grief while celebrating growth

- Managing overwhelm and doom scrolling

- Rebuilding trust after betrayal

- Creating your own justice

- Finding balance in uncertain times

Key Quotes:

"When we heal ourselves, we create ripples. When we learn to trust ourselves again, we show others it's possible."

"The only way out is through."

"Not every thought needs to be shared, not every message needs a response, not every news alert deserves attention."

Journal Prompts:

- When I think about trust now versus two years ago, the biggest difference is...

- The quiet ways I've been rebuilding trust in myself look like...

- If I could write a letter to the version of me who first felt this betrayal, I would tell them...

- The difference between missing someone and missing who I thought they were is...

- Three boundaries I'm proud of setting in my relationships are...

- When I notice myself hesitating to trust again, I remind myself...

Today's Glimmers:

- The courage in your questions

- Theo dreaming with moving paws and exposed belly

- One-on-one dinner with mom

- Hot shower after the gym on a 7-degree day

- The gift of supportive community

Resources Mentioned:

- Book discussed at Fantasy Book Club: "Weyward" by Emilia Hart

- Calm App for meditation and journaling

Connect With Emma:

Instagram: @thedilemmasofemma

Substack: https://substack.com/@thedilemmasofemma

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