The Dance of Working with Trauma

Healing trauma is a delicate dance,

One that requires both courage and compassion.

At times, the vortex of negative emotions can seem overwhelming;

What forbearance it takes to be present to them yet not become overwhelmed.

And when that storm is past, you have more of your self.

This can lead to the belief: ‘I’ve got this now; it is all resolved. I can move forward in my life.’

Then the pendulum swings back.

It is time to revisit the pain, the despair, the anger; the sense of worthlessness.

Maybe even an added judgement: ‘I’ve failed, I haven’t resolved this after all.’

It will happen again and again, allowing a closer encounter

with the pain that your childhood self had to suppress

in order to survive.

Each time your sense of self is strengthened,

and there comes a time when it is easier.

You are still triggered,

but it doesn't take you over like it used to because

you have come home to yourself.

With thanks to Cheryl Milton