As a millenial who doesn't have human kids (I have two cats who are my kids), but has felt that generational trauma, thank you so much for writing this! I'm working on my own article/essay that also looks at generational trauma. Even though it won't be out for a while, I will be including a link to this article in in because you make so many good points that I am also going to try and cover💞💜 (To be clear: Not the same exact points, but definetly ones that agree with what you wrote)
How wonderful Kimber! I'm honoured. Trauma is such a deep and complex topic. I was barely scraping the surface here. There is so much more to say. Perhaps most important of all is that breaking generational trauma and the journey towards growth might take a life-time and it will be filled with many ups-and-downs. We have to be careful and compassionate with ourselves as we walk this path. But to want to take the journey is admirable in itself. At least, I happen to think so. So I wish you the very best for it. Also for the writing!
Another thoughtful article, Imola. I really like that you wrote about posttraumatic growth—that through difficult experiences, we can rebuild ourselves with new, often deeper, meaning and purpose in life. In my practice, I sometimes use the analogy of roses—whoever has them in the garden knows that in order to have a luxuriant rose bush, you need to have proper "fertilizer." The most beautiful flowers bloom on manure. The trick in life is to be able to turn to the path of reflection and self-discovery, which is not easy.
Thank you for mentioning my comment and publication in your post, Imola. It is much appreciated!
Thank you for the inspiration Aleks! It is an important conversation to have. And you are doing a very important work. The least I can do is mention it :)
Beautifully written - such complex topics approached with much-needed relatability, gentleness and hope. I love what your daughter said at the end. The way she respects and supports you is a testament to the work you've done healing generational trauma.
As a millenial who doesn't have human kids (I have two cats who are my kids), but has felt that generational trauma, thank you so much for writing this! I'm working on my own article/essay that also looks at generational trauma. Even though it won't be out for a while, I will be including a link to this article in in because you make so many good points that I am also going to try and cover💞💜 (To be clear: Not the same exact points, but definetly ones that agree with what you wrote)
How wonderful Kimber! I'm honoured. Trauma is such a deep and complex topic. I was barely scraping the surface here. There is so much more to say. Perhaps most important of all is that breaking generational trauma and the journey towards growth might take a life-time and it will be filled with many ups-and-downs. We have to be careful and compassionate with ourselves as we walk this path. But to want to take the journey is admirable in itself. At least, I happen to think so. So I wish you the very best for it. Also for the writing!
Better to look at the bright side of life :)
Dr. Gabè--such a remarkably open and vulnerable talker--among the many wise things you say here. And I love the Larkin poem--one of my favorites.
Another thoughtful article, Imola. I really like that you wrote about posttraumatic growth—that through difficult experiences, we can rebuild ourselves with new, often deeper, meaning and purpose in life. In my practice, I sometimes use the analogy of roses—whoever has them in the garden knows that in order to have a luxuriant rose bush, you need to have proper "fertilizer." The most beautiful flowers bloom on manure. The trick in life is to be able to turn to the path of reflection and self-discovery, which is not easy.
Thank you for mentioning my comment and publication in your post, Imola. It is much appreciated!
Thank you for the inspiration Aleks! It is an important conversation to have. And you are doing a very important work. The least I can do is mention it :)
❤️
Ah! So much wisdom. Thank you for writing this.
Beautiful, Imola
Inside & out.
Thank you my beautiful friend. ♥️
This almost made me cry. Powerful words. Thank you.
Thank you lovely. It’s what I tried to articulate last week over lunch!
Thank you for the inspiration my soul brother
Beautifully written - such complex topics approached with much-needed relatability, gentleness and hope. I love what your daughter said at the end. The way she respects and supports you is a testament to the work you've done healing generational trauma.
Thank you so much Carla! It’s an ongoing work. I keep learning, and asking myself tough questions… :)
You are a powerful woman Alice! And you can always share Daniel’s letter with me in private :) sending you much love ❤️