The holiday season is upon us. For me, one of the most beautiful parts of the holidays are our traditions. Each of us can probably recall some holiday tradition. For me, it was always listening to Christmas music and watching holiday movies like
The Polar Express. If you aren't familiar,
The Polar Express is about the power in believing in the magic of the holidays. I know many of our traditions center around our holiday beliefs, and usually these holiday beliefs bring the fondest memories. Some of us have whimsical memories of believing in Santa Claus, Frosty the Snowman, or Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Others have more solemn, religious convictions that mark this holiday season. Wherever you are on this belief continuum, you hold these beliefs as strong truths, genuine or real.
At the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, belief is a serious subject. Some people come to us because they may have experienced sexual assault or are struggling with thoughts of suicide. Others may come to us because of child abuse or domestic violence experiences. Whatever the reason, it's important for them to be able to share their story, in a safe environment, where they will be "believed".
It is not easy reaching out for help and there are so many barriers preventing people from making that first phone call. More often than not, callers to our 2-1-1 line or survivors of trauma recount that the single biggest reason they didn't reach out for help was the fear that no one would believe them. There is such power in being believed, and at the Crisis Center, we provide that opportunity to them.
So this holiday season, please hold tight to your beliefs. But, keep in mind that if you ever find yourself in a crisis, we are here. Our mission is to ensure that no one in our community has to face a crisis alone. This means that when you call us, we will believe you.
Wishing you the happiest of holidays,
Clara
