Lisa is a woman whose story of survival and triumph over adversity is truly inspiring. Born into a cult, Lisa was raised with the belief that the outside world was evil and that salvation could only be found by following the teachings of the cult's leader. However, as she got older, she began to question the practices and beliefs that had been imposed upon her. Despite the fear and uncertainty that came with the decision to leave, Lisa found the strength and courage to break free and start a new life. Her story serves as a reminder that we all have the power to choose our own path and that, with perseverance and a support network, we can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.
Interviewer: Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Lisa, who has a remarkable story to share with us. Lisa, can you tell us about your experience with the cult and how you managed to escape?
Lisa: Of course. I was born into a cult, so I never knew anything different. From a young age, I was taught to believe that the outside world was evil and that the only way to be saved was to follow the teachings of the cult's leader. As I got older, I started to question some of the practices and beliefs that were being imposed upon me. I was always told that doubt was a sign of weakness and that I needed to have blind faith, but something just didn't feel right.
Eventually, I mustered up the courage to start doing my own research and discovered that many of the things I had been taught were false. The more I learned, the more I realised how brainwashed I had become. I knew I had to leave, but I was terrified. I had no idea how to survive on my own and I was afraid of what would happen if I tried to leave.
Interviewer: That sounds incredibly difficult. How did you find the strength to leave?
Lisa: It was a combination of things. First, I started reaching out to people who had left the cult and were able to start new lives for themselves. Hearing their stories gave me hope that I could do the same. I also started to realise that staying in the cult meant sacrificing my own happiness and freedom, and I knew that wasn't a life I wanted to live.
Finally, I made a plan to leave and had to execute it quickly. It was terrifying, but I knew it was the only way. With the help of some friends and a support network, I was able to make it out and start a new life.
Interviewer: That's incredible, Lisa. What advice would you give to someone who may be in a similar situation and looking to leave a cult?
Lisa: I would say to start by doing your own research and reaching out to people who have left. There are resources and support networks available, and you don't have to go through it alone. It's also important to trust your own instincts and not be afraid to question what you're being taught. Leaving a cult can be scary and overwhelming, but it's possible. Just know that there is a whole world waiting for you outside of it.
Join us on SheThrives as we celebrate women like Lisa and their stories of resilience and triumph over adversity.
* Names and photos have been changed to protect the subject's anonymity where requested.