Understanding Dissociation

While it is difficult to comprehend, the victim of severe trauma has no control over the dissociation. It is a safety mechanism our brains have developed to preserve us during impossible circumstances. Often, the victim is unaware of the dissociation until they are in a safe space (both physically and emotionally) to deal with the trauma.

Read More

Freedom in Sharing

There is freedom in sharing our stories, our burdens, and triumphs along the way. With sharing, newfound strength can help us navigate the future.

Read More

Pity or Compassion

Pity or feeling sorry for someone who is suffering tends to focus on the horror. It can blind us to the person behind the barrier. It can look like you don’t believe they can ever overcome the trauma. Compassion focuses on the victim’s capabilities rather than brokenness. Helping a victim isn’t about reaching down, but…

Read More

How Abuse Skews Our Identity

Abuse skews our identity, but doesn’t change it. We can choose to stay in the muck of the pain and anguish or we can choose to own our lives and discover nurture our true identities.

Read More

Behind the Fortress

Opening the gate allows the healing of my heart. It allows the kindnesses, compassion, and even good intentions of others to permeate my walls of protection. It strengthens my foundation. Life behind the fortress is no longer dark and lonely.

Read More

Giving It Forward–An invitation

In loving memory of my sister, Jerri Lynn, who fought many life battles, I am starting a Giving It Forward campaign. This is not a fundraiser, it’s more of an awareness-raiser. It is about connection, reaching out, and believing. It’s about being real and being open-hearted. There are as many ways of giving it forward…

Read More

The Gift: Peace

Peace on Earth has more to do with the heart than with the circumstances of our lives. Sometimes the peace comes after the trial.

Read More