It Ends With Us
Finding Beauty in the Broken
It Ends With Us, the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, struck a deep chord with me. It masterfully navigates the complex landscape of human relationships and trauma, illustrating that not all abusers are monsters but rather individuals wounded by unhealed pain.
One of the film's most compelling aspects is its exploration of generational cycles of suffering. It vividly portrays how unresolved trauma can perpetuate through families, affecting not just ourselves but those we love. This powerful narrative reminds us that while we may not be at fault for the pains we’ve endured, it is our responsibility as adults to consciously heal these wounds. Brene Brown eloquently captures this idea: “When we deny our stories and disengage from tough emotions, they don’t go away; instead, they own us, they define us. Our job is not to deny the story, but to defy the ending—to rise strong, recognize our story, and rumble with the truth until we get to a place where we think, Yes. This is what happened. This is my truth. And I will choose how this story ends.”
In my own journey, I’ve learned that compassion for others’ struggles can sometimes lead us to sacrifice our own values and integrity. When I was leaving an abusive relationship, I realized through the help of counselors that staying in the situation was a form of self-abuse. Their guidance helped me see my role in the situation and taught me how to avoid such relationships in the future. I had to raise my standards and take care of myself, being kind through the process of growth and self-discovery. These monumental shifts in my thinking have gradually shaped me into someone I’m proud to be and a positive role model for my daughter.
What moved me most about It Ends With Us was its hopeful message: even in the wake of profound pain, we have the power to create something beautiful. The film emphasizes the importance of conscious healing and choosing a path of love and harmony. It encourages us to break free from destructive cycles and embrace a future filled with peace and fulfillment.
In essence, It Ends With Us is not just a story of love and loss but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of healing. It’s a film that invites deep reflection and inspires us to consider how we can shape our own futures, no matter what we’ve endured.
