In this episode of The Grass Gets Greener podcast, I'm joined by Dan Erickson, author of The Cult Trilogy series of books. Dan joins me to share his story of growing up in a cult, how he was able to get out of that environment, and what life has been like for him since.
Click the play button below to check it out!
The Details
Traumatic experience:
Dan was forced to live in a cult from the ages of 10 to almost 16. The situation was abusive and controlling and he was forced to do slave labor on their farm. He was also indoctrinated in the leader's beliefs.
Effects of the traumatic experience:
With his new found freedom, Dan engaged in some unhealthy habits like drinking and doing drugs. He also became paranoid and fearful that the cult leader would try to find him. This has led him to be fearful of seemingly innocuous things in his life. He's also dealt with anger and resentment, and is shy around women since he wasn't allowed to be around girls in the cult.
Overcoming the traumatic experience:
Journaling and writing music have been helpful for Dan. He's also had to practice forgiveness towards those involved in the cult situation. And he's found that traveling alone to think about things has helped him as well.
What Dan does today:
Dan is a teacher, writer, musician, single dad and aspiring minimalist.
Final Question:
Given what you know now, if you could go back to when you were going through the tough times and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?
Dan's Answer: To be doubtful and not believe what those who are trying to control you are telling you.
Links Mentioned
DanErickson.net - Dan's website where you can find out more about him and what he's working on
HipDiggs.com - Dan's website where he writes about minimalism and simple living
Twitter - Dan's Twitter profile
Facebook - Dan's Facebook profile
Starve the Doubts - the podcast episode where Dan was the guest and I was the co-host
Books Mentioned
A Train Called Forgiveness - Book 1 of The Cult Trilogy
At the Crossing of Justice and Mercy - Book 2 of The Cult Trilogy
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