Her Journey to Freedom

Hello, my name is Sarah, and I am approaching 50 years old. I am the proud mother of three adult children who are each learning what it means to live emotionally healthy lives.

When I was 21, I met the man who would become my first serious boyfriend—and eventually my husband. He appeared kind, grounded, and deeply rooted in his faith. At the time, I was just beginning to grow into my own confidence, starting my career, and building my life as a young woman of faith. I was drawn in by his charm and the way he expressed himself. Within a year, we were married, and I believed I was stepping into a beautiful future.

A few years later, we were expecting our first child. I had completed my degree and was doing everything I could to be a supportive partner and build a strong home. From the outside, it looked like everything was in place.

But over time, I began to experience patterns that left me feeling confused, hurt, and unseen. I started journaling, trying to make sense of what I was experiencing—emotional pain, manipulation, and a relationship that felt increasingly one-sided. For many years, I sought help through counseling, mentorship, and personal study. I believed that if I just tried harder, communicated better, or understood more, things would change.

For two decades, I wrestled with the decision to stay or leave. I wanted stability for my children and hoped things could improve. But eventually, I began to recognize that the environment was not healthy for any of us. Learning about unhealthy relationship dynamics gave me language for what I had been experiencing and helped me begin to see a path forward.

After one final attempt at counseling, I was encouraged to reach out to ARMS (Abuse Recovery Ministry & Services). That step changed everything.

I attended my first ARMS “Her Journey” group alongside a close family member who had also experienced abuse. For the first time, I felt truly understood. The program gave me tools, clarity, and a supportive community. I went through the 15-week Her Journey program multiple times, and each time, I grew stronger and more confident.

With the support of ARMS, I was able to make a plan for my future. When I made the decision to move forward with divorce, I did so with greater clarity, safety, and peace. Even during a difficult season, the principles I learned through ARMS helped bring a sense of stability and reduced conflict.

ARMS didn’t just help me take steps outward—it transformed me from the inside out. Through the Her Journey program, I gained a deeper understanding of my identity, my worth, and my faith. I came to realize that I was not alone, and that healing was possible.

Today, I am over two years past my divorce. I continue to grow, heal, and walk in freedom. My journey has shaped me, strengthened me, and given me a passion to see others experience that same hope.

I am deeply grateful for ARMS, the leaders, the programs, and the supporters who make this work possible.

Because of ARMS, women like Sarah can find healing, clarity, and the courage to move forward.

If you feel moved by this story, you can help make that same journey possible for others. Your support allows more women to find safety, community, and lasting healing through ARMS.

Help women like Sarah take their next step toward freedom: Donate