Normies talking about getting whiplash from recipe blogs. You know nothing
[ID: An AO3 author’s note reading, “Sorry for vanishing, I did a little too much research on cults an coercive control for Damian’s arc, and then realized I was raised in a cult, and THEN I ran away to a fishing town cabin on the other side of the country and had to start learning to be a person in the real world. I also forgot how to write. But I’m learning again, so I’m back now! Have some more.” The “I” in “I was raised in a cult” is emphasized by sparking emojis, and the note is ended with heart emojis. /end ID]
Aaaand THIS is one of the many reasons why it’s not only not a bad thing to portray dark subject matter, but EXTREMELY IMPORTANT to do so!! You can learn a lot when writing, and others can learn a lot when reading! This can save lives, dudes.
I am so proud of the author though. That took multiple kinds of courage at once. Good job, author.
Hi! I’m the original author from ao3!
I want to thank everyone for such hilarious and kind additions/replies/tags on this post, they’ve been so amazing to read. They’ve meant more to me than you guys know. ❤️
I also want to add some information for anyone who wants to know more about recognizing the signs that you might be in a high control group.
High control groups can be small or large, religious or not, clubs, schools, online servers, friend groups, etc.
No human is invulnerable because we all have brains and emotions that can be played like a fiddle. Knowing the red flags can help us all keep ourselves safer!
Crisis Text Line (highly recommend, especially if you’re not in a safe place to discuss things on the phone)
Please always protect yourself as best you can and never be afraid to reach out for help—even if you’re just wondering, even if you’re not sure about something.
No safe group or person will EVER be mad at you for being cautious and taking things slow, or for changing your mind at ANY point. You’re the one who gets to decide whether you join or stay with a group, no matter what they threaten or love-bomb you with.
If you’re not safe, there’s help.
If you feel trapped, there’s help.
If people are being actively hurt, good people want to listen, understand, and help.
We all deserve freedom. I’m grateful every morning I wake up that I get to live it now, even though it’s hard and I have a long way to go. Thank you for walking this journey with me, for one brief moment or for years, and helping me—and others like me—not be alone.
Take care, stay safe, and happy fanfiction reading!
