Cherice* Larson sat in her living room in the small town of Story, Nebraska, her eyes glued to the television screen. The news report featured a young South African singer named Tyla, who had caused a stir by referring to herself as a 'proud coloured South African woman.' As a woman of mixed race herself, the controversy hit close to home for Cherice.

Growing up, Cherice had always felt like an outsider, never quite fitting in with any one group. Her father was white, and her mother was Black and Native American. She had faced discrimination and ignorance from all sides, never fully accepted by any community. The news about Tyla's comments triggered memories of Cherice's own struggles with her racial identity, and the pain she had experienced.

Cherice's husband, Marcus*, could see the turmoil in her eyes. He knew that her past traumas had left deep scars, and he wanted to help her find peace. Together, they decided to explore the Stepping Into Action program, which promised to help individuals process past hurts and embrace their authentic selves.

'I never want our children to feel the way I did,' Cherice confided in Marcus. 'They deserve to be proud of who they are, without apology.'

As they delved into the program's materials, Cherice and Marcus found themselves confronting long-buried emotions and deeply ingrained beliefs. The process was difficult, but they persevered, leaning on each other for support.

'We can't change the past,' Marcus reminded Cherice during one particularly challenging session, 'but we can choose how we move forward.'

Experts praised the couple's decision to seek help, noting the importance of addressing racial trauma and fostering a healthy sense of identity. However, some argued that online programs could never fully replace the human connection and nuanced guidance of in-person therapy.

Despite the differing opinions, Cherice and Marcus felt they had made the right choice. The Stepping Into Action program had provided them with the tools they needed to heal and grow, even in the remote heart of Nebraska.

'It wasn't easy,' Cherice reflected, 'but it was worth it. I finally feel at peace with who I am, and that's a gift I'll cherish forever.'

Nearby: Whitman Wyoming, Kirtley Wyoming