At some point, life challenges us with trauma that cuts deeply into our existence, reshaping our sense of self. Nikki’s life, once ordinary and content as a single mother and a professional working with prisoners, takes an unexpected turn. Violence in the confines of a maximum-security prison leaves her navigating the obstacles of Complex PTSD. With candid vulnerability, Nikki invites readers into her world of triggers, flashbacks, and dissociation, along with lingering fears that many find incomprehensible. Embark on a poignant journey through Nikki’s personal odyssey of survival, where every page resonates with the echoes of her battles against the shadows of trauma. With unwavering courage, she unravels the intricate tapestry of her mind, weaving a narrative that speaks to the very core of human vulnerability. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Japanese philosophy of kintsugi, Nikki illuminates the beauty in brokenness, forging a path towards self-discovery and empowerment. Her words, like guiding stars in the darkness, offer solace to those navigating their own tumultuous seas of memory and pain. This book isn’t a clinical guide; it is a heartfelt sharing from one soul to another. It’s about understanding how trauma impacts our mind, body and soul; but most importantly it’s about learning how to approach healing with compassion rather than harsh selfjudgment.