How do you react to violence?

As a person who is living in the aftermath of emotional and verbal slicing and shredding and other abuse as a child - my initial response to raised voices, hostility and agression tends to be to freeze and retreat.  I am continuing to work toward being a peaceful presence in myself in such situations - and to mediate as opportunities arise.  One of the most important parts of this work is dealing with anger and dark places in myself and others.  I also seek to overturn and/or reform systems and institutions that oppress and do violence.


I work deeply toward breaking silence around abuse, finding creative and Spirit affirming ways to live in the aftermath - and help other people confront violence and heal.  I have joyfully participated in a number of national actions with Soulforce and much of my faith life is built in and on seeking peace with justice through the Baptist Peace Fellowship and other organizations.


love and blessings -


Sylvia



After some reflection - I decided to share the following poem:





“You’re awesome!” chirped the little sprite with the ashen curls and the pert face.


Such matter of fact affirmation -


Evoking a torrent of tears testifying to so many years and so many little ones inside so savaged and so determined to forge ahead in the face of such unrelenting un-ease.

Taunting night terrors, consuming the days with aching body resistance -

Still fighting the horrific invasions that marauded toddlerhood decades ago.


What is peace?  A moment’s relief/release from the hamster wheel of consequences for actions not my/our own?

A serene space inside myself/ourselves?

The glowing, awe-full Presence of the Divine feminine?  Elusive, energizing, mighty, comforting?