# @annalysejacobs on Instagram

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DVkv32rDEDa
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/59714945-annalysejacobs-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/25e2a58cae.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-03-07T07:06:04.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Anna Jacobs, The Colour Doctor (@annalysejacobs) — https://gondola.cc/annalysejacobs

## Caption

This is a true story that might surprise you …

These words weren’t said to me by a boyfriend, but by the controlling, charismatically powerful male leader of the cult I was in. I was 30. 

Ahead of this particular International Women’s Day, this somehow feels pertinent … men in powerful positions. 

I’d been deeply committed to our cult leader for six years.  He demanded absolute submission and devotion and we submitted to rid ourselves of everything negative, to become pure, so that we could stop causing harm in the world and therefore help change it. 

Grandiose and naive I know and I have a very different view of how to make a difference in the world now, but our hearts were open and our intentions were good. 

But those words that he said to me that day, when he could sense my doubt creeping in, made me realize how little respect he had for me. 

Three days later, I left him. Escaped the cult that I’d given everything to. 

It meant leaving my long term boyfriend and my home. My career had evaporated and all my money was gone. I was left with nothing.

But in that instant, I knew I would never be free while I stayed under the control of that man. 

To leave was devastating, tortuous and it took me a long time to reintegrate into normal society again. But I never regretted it. 

So at moments like this, when I feel such joy and gratitude for where I find myself today, I often think back to that moment 26yrs ago and I think Ha! I was stronger than you thought. And I am free. 

We are always stronger than we think. 

So to all the women out there who are trapped in controlling or abusive relationships, whether they are personal, professional, spiritual, or political, you are strong. 

I urge you to find that strength, harness it and claim your freedom. 

I waited too long and in other situations I haven’t been able to, so I know how hard it is. But it is the most important piece of advice I give my daughter. Your instinct is right and you will have the strength. 

Spring will come and the sun will shine again. 

#iwd #iwd2026 #colourfulhome #springishere #countrysideliving

## Stats

- **Views:** 6,903
- **Likes:** 846
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- **Comments:** 162

## Tags

springishere, colourfulhome, iwd2026, countrysideliving, iwd

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