They Erased Me, So I Rewrote My Life Chapter 54

They Erased Me, So I Rewrote My Life Chapter 54

During my years at the University of Oregon, I slowly figured out the path I truly wanted to take.

Leo remained in agricultural science.

And I, after taking several related courses, changed my major from political science to psychology.

“Why the change?” Leo asked once as we were walking across campus.

“Because I want to understand things,” I said, looking at the students on the distant lawn. “I want to understand manipulation, trauma, and how people find their way out.”

I paused.

“Maybe someday, I can help people who have gone through something similar.”

Leo stopped, lowered his head, and kissed my forehead.

“You’ll be a good therapist.”

During those years in college, we lived in separate dorms, then later moved into a small apartment off campus, but we were almost always together.

We stayed up late in the library, frequented small cafés in Eugene, and planned a future that no longer required running away.

Leo channeled his love for the land into something practical.

He started a small nonprofit project, teaching children and families in the community about sustainable agriculture.

And I began volunteering with a support group for survivors of family manipulation and emotional abuse.

I listened to their stories and watched them slowly find their footing.

For the first time, I felt that the pain I had endured might not have been a complete waste.