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As we head into our summer schedule with fewer groups, we hope you find time and space to care for your heart, mind, and body in ways that feel restorative. This is one of our older Facilitator Tips, but the information and suggestions still feel relevant, especially when it comes to attending to the impact of supporting children and families who are grieving. If you need additional support this summer, please reach out to your Coordinator.
In her book, Trauma Stewardship, Laura Van Dernoot Lipsky writes, “I had to find some way to bear witness to trauma without surrendering my ability to live fully.” After years of working with people experiencing trauma, Laura found herself standing on the edge of a cliff looking out over a beautiful view of the Caribbean and thinking, “I wonder how many people have jumped?” and “Where would the Life Flight helicopter land? Where is the nearest trauma hospital?” When she shared these thoughts with her family, she was shocked to find out she was the only one who had them. It was a watershed moment of realizing just how deeply and fundamentally she was affected by the cumulative toll of supporting those dealing with trauma.
Laura’s work with the Trauma Stewardship Institute focuses on breaking down the silence and shame that often accompany recognizing the effect of trauma exposure. There are many cultural, organizational, familial, and individual beliefs that contribute to the silence around the impact of working with trauma. Beliefs such as, “Only the weak are affected,” “If you’re having a hard time, you’re not cut out for the work,” read more here...
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