Even in hurt, there is hope. Even in brokenness, there is beauty.
In this heartfelt introduction, I share a personal story of heartbreak and growth, reflecting on the loss of a cherished friendship and the lessons it taught me. As someone with Autism and ADHD, I explore the complexities of trust, vulnerability, and the importance of setting boundaries. Through faith, reflection, and resilience, I’ve discovered that brokenness isn’t failure—it’s an opportunity to heal and rebuild stronger. This journey is about embracing life’s imperfections, finding beauty in the messiness, and fostering connection with others who are navigating their own challenges.
Ele
1/7/20252 min read
Welcome to My Blog!
Thank you for joining me as I start this new chapter of reflection, growth, and connection. In 2024, I experienced one of the most challenging heartbreaks of my life: the loss of a close friendship with someone who had been a mentor to me. This person meant a great deal to me, and when our relationship ended, it left me questioning so much about myself and the situation.
Living with Autism and ADHD adds unique dimensions to my relationships. I tend to trust deeply and wholeheartedly, often seeing the best in others without questioning their intentions. When that trust is broken, it cuts to the core. The loss of this friendship wasn’t entirely my fault—or theirs—but the layers of misunderstanding, miscommunication, and unspoken expectations played a significant role in what unfolded.
I share this not to dwell on the pain or place blame but to highlight a truth many of us face: relationships can sometimes hurt us, but they can also teach us the most profound lessons about ourselves, others, and the world.
What I’ve come to learn is that brokenness doesn’t mean failure. It’s an opportunity to grow, reflect, and heal. When we are broken, we become open—open to new perspectives, open to learning, and open to rebuilding stronger than before.
One of the most impactful lessons I’ve carried with me comes from a story I heard at 13 about an "ugly fruit." On the outside, it’s rough, scarred, and far from perfect. But when you cut it open, it’s sweet, juicy, and full of nourishment. That story has stayed with me because it reminds me that, even in the messiness of life, there’s beauty and value within us waiting to shine through.
Through this experience, I’ve leaned on my faith to guide me. I believe God knows the pain we’ll face long before it happens, and He uses those moments to shape us into who we’re meant to be. Trusting in Him doesn’t erase the hurt but allows us to see the bigger picture over time.
I won’t pretend I have all the answers at 25, but as someone who’s spoken at the Milestones Autism Conference, pursued psychology studies, worked as a psychometrician, and navigated entrepreneurship, I can say that some of my greatest growth has come from moments of vulnerability and brokenness.
This loss reminded me of the importance of setting boundaries and being mindful of where I place my trust. As an autistic person, my tendency to trust deeply can sometimes leave me vulnerable, and this experience taught me to balance that openness with discernment. It doesn’t mean I’ll stop trusting—it means I’ll trust while also protecting my heart and well-being.
Life’s challenges don’t have to define us—they can refine us. Sometimes, we need to pause, reflect, and rebuild. And even when we stumble, those moments of imperfection are what make us human.
Thank you for reading my first post and being part of this journey. I hope that sharing these experiences can create a space of understanding and connection, especially for those navigating their own challenges. Together, we can find the beauty in brokenness and the strength in moving forward.
Even in hurt, there is hope. Even in brokenness, there is beauty.