Rabia's concept of turning back from illusion applies to helping adoptive children and parents release shame narratives about pre-adoption trauma or loss.
Tawbah—turning toward truth and away from delusion—was central to Rabia's spiritual practice. In adoptive family work, this framework helps both parent and child turn from internalized shame stories ("I was unwanted," "I failed as a biological parent") toward reality and dignity. The adoptive parent practices tawbah by releasing the illusion of control over the child's past and by grieving rather than denying their own losses. The child practices tawbah by questioning false narratives implanted by trauma or loss, recognizing their worth independent of circumstances. Rabia teaches that this turning is not about forgetting but about ceasing to live inside lies. For adoptive families, tawbah becomes a practice of honest reckoning with adoption's complex truth—loss and love coexisting—without collapse into either despair or toxic positivity.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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