During the course of the last seven months my mind has been preoccupied with the notion of trauma. to understand better as to how trauma has affected me personally I studied trauma, and decided to look to my own. I didn't have to go too far back.
When I was a young girl, 10 years old I was living with an older brother and his wife. One evening hearing a commotion outside my door I opened the bedroom door to witness them arguing. Very quickly the argument escalated to a physical confrontation. Quickly I shut the door and covered my ears to block what was going on as hard as I tried I could not get the image out of my mind. This incident had a huge impact on me, I became fearful of intoxicated people, and anyone who would raise their voice and look like they were going to lose their cool. To this day I avoid confrontation of any sort.
Recounting the story has a visceral effect on my body, heart pounding, hands sweaty. as I reflected more, I clearly saw not only my own trauma but trauma in others. My first step to healing was to recognize the trauma within me.
Deep connection, support, and social cohesion, are necessary requirements of healing our own trauma.
we must remember our songs, dances, and stories. The photograph above is of my niece who is passionate about connecting to her indigenous culture. Our journey to healing will take many avenues.