The Healing Soul of a Survivor: A Journey into Forgiving My Family Cycles

Angel Ruiz thought she knew where she came from—until a DNA test revealed otherwise. Reeling from the sudden and total collapse of her own identity, Angel begins to piece together her own troubled past growing up with her mom. She recalls how she was treated poorly compared to her siblings, constantly threatened with being sent away to a group home or reform school. As a child, she lives in absolute squalor and strives to overcome her circumstances. But as Angel grows up, she unknowingly begins falling into the same habits as her mother: picking the wrong men, realizing she has trouble fully loving her first child and struggling to find a career. To find herself again, Angel realizes the need to create herself anew. This leads her to exploring painting, books, courses in self-improvement and practical ways to succeed. She begins to find healing from meditation, retreats, and healing circles. With raw candor and optimism, The Healing Soul of a Survivor is as much an inner journey for the reader as it is about Angel’s quest to find and forgive her past.Praise for “The Healing Soul of a Survivor”“Angel’s journey back home is a journey back to herself. She takes the hand of her inner child and allows her to play in a safe playground of love and acceptance.” — Wayne Scot Lukas“The Healing Soul of a Survivor is a portrait of courage, the courage of Angel to share the horrific times she endured growing up in the hopes that she can help others. All of us who were fortunate enough to attend Milton Hershey School came from disadvantaged backgrounds, but very few endured the abuse that plagued Angel prior to enrollment. While it has taken many years for Angel to face her demons, I believe the love and support she received from “Mom and Pop” Stacks at the school started Angel on her healing process. As one of her former teachers, I couldn’t be more proud of her transformation over the years, as well as her inspiring story to help others.” — Mike Weller “The Healing Soul of a Survivor is an inspiration to anyone who’s working on healing in their own life. After I started reading, I couldn’t put the book down until I finished. This is the story of an eager young girl who didn’t let her circumstances navigate her life, but rather used her circumstances to grow up into a fearless, empathetic woman. Learning more about my mother’s past helped in my own healing. When I did finally finish, I realized my journey had just started.” — Eric Porteous”The Healing Soul of a Survivor is a book about growth, self-love and resilience. I learned how a young woman can get past anything meant to break her down and still rise from the ashes of defeat. Angel Ruiz tells her story so beautifully you’ll want to keep turning the pages to find out what happens next. The Healing Soul of a Survivor shows how you can become stronger through anything in life and learn to heal within yourself, no matter the obstacle. Angel Ruiz’s tenacity is astounding and makes you want to know more about her story. An enticing read that will leave you yearning for more.” –Victoria Walsh”Many thanks to my dear friend, Angel, for writing with such raw honesty and transparency. The Healing Soul of a Survivor is necessary for each of us. We travel with Angel through a life of horrors to arrive at the good that is possible for each reader. Through friendships with God and caring individuals, we can find healing, forgiveness, and new identity as family cycles are broken and new choices are made possible. The Healing Soul of a Survivor will add value to your life and it will help you to add value to the lives of others.” — Rev. Dr. B. Michael Brossman (“Pastor Mike”), Calvary United Methodist Church, York, PA.