I have taken the following list of “rights” from a workbook I use to assist women heal the trauma of abuse. I think it is a list we can all benefit from. May I suggest printing it out and posting it or carrying it with you so you can read though it whenever you need a reminder.
MY RIGHTS
- I have the right to be treated with dignity, compassion and respect at all times
- I have the right to make my own decisions about the course of my life
- I have the right to have dreams – and to work toward making these dreams come true
- I have the right to feel good about myself as a person (and as a woman/man)
- I have the right to choose who will be my friends, whom I spend my time with and whom I will confide in
- I have the right to make mistakes
- I have the right to change my mind
- I have the right to be happy
- I have the right to ask for what I want
- I have the right to follow my own values and standards
- I have the right to express all of my feelings, both positive and negative
- I have the right I have the right to say “no”
- I have the right to determine my own priorities
- I have the right not to be responsible for others’ behaviour, actions feelings or problems
- I have the right to my own needs for personal space and time
- I have the right to be in a non abusive environment
- I have the right to change and grow
- I have the right to have my needs and wants respected by others
- I have the right to be uniquely myself
from “Healing the Trauma of Abuse – A Women’s Workbook”,
by Mary Ellen Copeland & Maxine Harris
