I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, as the eldest of three children to young parents whose relationship was built on illusions of love. They named me Tracy, but I felt like an unplanned addition to their lives. A traumatic moment from my childhood involved babysitting during his parents’ parties, where he witnessed violence erupt when his friend’s younger brother turned on the television against his father’s orders. This illustrated the harsh reality that sometimes love could be cruel, marking a dark turn in his childhood.
As Tracy grew, his early experiences morphed into lasting memories of fear and rage, particularly during her teenage years. One day, as he prepared for school, she felt immense anxiety when he realized he had forgotten her homework. This fear turned catastrophic in his mind, culminating in a moment of humiliation in his science class. Later, his mother reassured him that he was not alone, but the label of being a victim felt overwhelming to Tracy, bringing back memories of her childhood fears.
In the following years, Tracy learned to embrace his scars and turn them into strengths. Sharing his story became a source of healing, showing him that vulnerability could connect him with others. During a session, he met another girl facing her own struggles, and Tracy helped her understand that the shame she felt was not her fault. By sharing his own experiences, Tracy became a beacon of hope and support for others, guiding them toward healing.
Tracy discovered his purpose through helping others, transforming his own pain into empathy and resilience. He recognized that trauma could lead to connection and understanding. Although his past still resonates within him, he stands ready to support others in their struggles. He aims to create a community where shared experiences become a source of strength, leading everyone from darkness into the light of healing.
James R Lilith Foundation 