Starting New Traditions: A Healing Path for Survivors of Domestic Violence

Escaping domestic violence is a monumental act of courage. For Survivors, leaving behind a dangerous environment means stepping into the unknown—a life free from abuse but filled with uncertainty. One way Survivors can begin to heal and build a new sense of identity is by creating new traditions. These small, meaningful acts can transform trauma into empowerment and help Survivors reclaim their lives.

Why Traditions Matter

Traditions anchor us to our sense of self and belonging. In abusive situations, many Survivors are robbed of the ability to celebrate or enjoy everyday rituals, as abuse can often warp or destroy the concept of safety, especially during holidays and family gatherings. Once free, Survivors have the opportunity to reclaim their autonomy by creating new traditions that reflect their strength, resilience, and the future they want to build.

These new traditions can be as simple as a self-care routine, a special meal, or participating in community events—anything that holds meaning and allows Survivors to reconnect with themselves in a positive, healing way.

Healing Through Connection and Celebration

Starting a new tradition isn’t just about marking time—it’s about marking growth. Each tradition becomes a milestone, a reminder of how far a Survivor has come. Whether it’s decorating a home for the first time without fear or organizing a holiday dinner with loved ones who provide a safe and supportive environment, these moments allow Survivors to reclaim their joy.

At Control Alt Delete, we believe that traditions, especially during the holidays, play a critical role in healing. This is why we collect nonperishable holiday meals for the Survivors we help escape. These meals provide them with an opportunity to create new, positive memories and lay the foundation for new traditions, ones that are built on love, safety, and celebration.

We also collect new, unwrapped gifts for Survivors escaping during the holiday season so they can experience the magic of the season. Our Holiday Hero program allows community members to “adopt” Survivors for the holidays allowing them the opportunity to create new and healing core memories.

The Power of Small Acts

Sometimes, starting a new tradition can be as simple as taking a walk every Sunday morning, lighting a candle in honor of a personal victory, or gathering with new friends. These small acts of routine provide comfort and a sense of control, something often stripped away by abusive situations.

Survivors don’t need grand gestures to find healing through tradition. It’s the small, consistent practices that can create a sense of normalcy and belonging, fostering hope and self-worth.

New Beginnings, New Memories

Creating new traditions allows Survivors to look forward to the future, rather than remain tethered to the pain of their past. These moments of joy, however small, signify that healing is possible, that there is life beyond abuse. At Control Alt Delete, we encourage Survivors to embrace the new—new environments, new experiences, and most importantly, new memories.

By starting new traditions, Survivors of domestic violence can rewrite their stories, not as victims but as individuals who took back their lives. Every holiday, every birthday, every small milestone can become a testament to their resilience and courage, marking the path toward healing and empowerment.

How You Can Help

At Control Alt Delete, we welcome donations of nonperishable holiday meals, allowing Survivors the chance to start their own healing traditions. Your support can give a Survivor the opportunity to create new memories, surrounded by safety and love. Donations can be dropped off anytime, helping to provide comfort and a sense of celebration during the holiday season.

Survivors deserve more than just an escape from violence—they deserve the chance to build a life filled with meaning, joy, and new traditions. Together, we can help make that possible.