James Ballantyne

Childhood Abuse

  • What if the story we live by, is a story we cannot tell?

    Something happened to you Something happened to you..that wasnt your fault Something happened to you…that wasnt your fault….and you had to do something as a result that you cannot talk about. Something happened to you..that wasnt your fault…and you coped… Continue reading

  • Feeling (truly) safe now.

    Three days ago my mum died. Yeah, thats quite a start to a blog isnt it. I mean I could have warned you, or said something reflective, or a nice quote. But no. Three days ago my mum died. And… Continue reading

  • Men, Why do we find it hard to love our bodies? (Part 1)

    Trigger warning ; Childhood abuse, self harm, spiritual abuse. I saw this from the beautiful Kat Shaw Artist yesterday: Her work is incredible to predominately female audience, on the female body, healing and self image. I always love it, I… Continue reading

  • I’m Glad my Mom Died

    ..is a raw, heartfelt, inspiring book. It’s about the way in which the unconscious expectations are placed on a child, it’s the story of how a child, then teenager, Jeannette McCurdy, has to resist growing up to maintain the fantasy… Continue reading

    I’m Glad my Mom Died

  • Abuse and the fragility of self-belief.

    ‘You shouldn’t doubt yourself, you’re really good at’ Aww shucks, thank you But when those voices return Those ones You know the ones I mean Every action, every creative, public action is a huge sap of energy Self doubt shouts… Continue reading

  • Thief in the Pen

    I am the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep, the sheep hear my voice and listen, they don’t listen to a stranger, for they dont know his voice. (John 10) But Lord we asked,… Continue reading