These posts delve into the area of trauma and abuse and point the way to healing. They are not a replacement for individual therapy, but are offered as an additional resource.
Whether we want to recognise if someone is a safe listener, or whether we desire to be a good listener for others, understanding pity, sympathy, empathy and compassion is crucial. Telling our stories is an integral part of our healing. The response we receive makes a huge difference to whether …
She was 6 years old. Lessons in the classroom were interesting, and she found the schoolwork easy. Breaktimes, however, were torture. Obliged to go out into the playground, she walked slowly, reluctant to join the older girls who taunted her. For safety, she sought out the hand of the lady …
The Stigma of Estrangement There is a stigma attached to being estranged from a family member. Historically, many cultures emphasized duty, obligations and responsibilities. People were very interdependent, and it was hard to cut yourself off from the support of your family. Elderly people relied on their children to provide …
Forgiveness. Forgiveness cannot be rushed. “I forgive you” is a process, not a sentence. Forgiveness burns in our chest, sweats tears of anguish, wriggles and squirms, silently screams in fear, rages against the injustice of it all, and brings inner peace. Forgiveness is not easy. It cannot be required or …
Sexual trauma is common. The effects can be catastrophic and long lasting. Yet, there remains a taboo around speaking about it. When it is talked about, the effects are often not understood, or are minimised. There have been conversations going on recently about famous people who sexually abused and assaulted …
