"...trauma is not as much about what actually happened to us as it is about the lack of a compassionate witness." Holy moly. I'm going to be pondering this for a long time.
This feels like a safe place to share that I always take a moment to look at roadkill when I pass them, and whisper a prayer of "Rest in peace, little friend." It feels like such a strange thing to do, but not doing it also feels like a betrayal to them and myself. ❤️
Roadkill always hurts my heart, and I know the pain of being the perpetrator (not specifically roadkill, but I fatally wounded a frog while mowing the lawn and had to quicken its death; it was horrible). Thank you for the wisdom that caring can be enough, that bearing witness is sacred.
Also, I love that you bury the fallen animals (and fully understand why the groundhog isn’t included) ❤️
Oh wow, that is so cool to hear Connie. I honestly hadn't planned to write about this, but woke up at 5:30 thinking about it and got out of bed. Maybe it was just for you. XOXO
This is so beautiful, Shannon. Your words about the cat... visceral... I remember that, too, having backed up in a hurry and not seen my kitty behind me. It was awful. I didn't bury her, but I moved her out of the driveway, away from her kittens. It's been 30+ years and I still see it all so clearly. Still remember it with guilt. Thank you for sharing this.
"...trauma is not as much about what actually happened to us as it is about the lack of a compassionate witness." Holy moly. I'm going to be pondering this for a long time.
This feels like a safe place to share that I always take a moment to look at roadkill when I pass them, and whisper a prayer of "Rest in peace, little friend." It feels like such a strange thing to do, but not doing it also feels like a betrayal to them and myself. ❤️
I do the same. 😢
This is a beautiful practice. I love the idea of having a specific ritual/prayer wording to handle such passing sadness.
Every time I read one of your Saturday pieces I think it's the best you've ever written. This is no exception. What can I say, I'm such a proud sis!
Aw thanks sis 😘
Roadkill always hurts my heart, and I know the pain of being the perpetrator (not specifically roadkill, but I fatally wounded a frog while mowing the lawn and had to quicken its death; it was horrible). Thank you for the wisdom that caring can be enough, that bearing witness is sacred.
Also, I love that you bury the fallen animals (and fully understand why the groundhog isn’t included) ❤️
Thanks Elizabeth. And I’m so sorry about the frog experience. I imagine that was really hard. 😔
Thank you for your inspiring perceptions.
This made me consider that some of my greatest fears may arise when I, like the legendary groundhog, “see my shadow!”
I missed an opportunity for that spin, didn’t I? 😜 Seriously though, thank you for adding this.
“Compassionate witness… paying attention.” So good.
🙏🏻
Oh Shannon, God spoke to my heart through your post this morning. Thank you.
Oh wow, that is so cool to hear Connie. I honestly hadn't planned to write about this, but woke up at 5:30 thinking about it and got out of bed. Maybe it was just for you. XOXO
This is so beautiful, Shannon. Your words about the cat... visceral... I remember that, too, having backed up in a hurry and not seen my kitty behind me. It was awful. I didn't bury her, but I moved her out of the driveway, away from her kittens. It's been 30+ years and I still see it all so clearly. Still remember it with guilt. Thank you for sharing this.
That sounds so painful on multiple levels, Kathleen. I'm so sorry. Sending a hug your way.