As a child I unconsciously developed many coping strategies to survive the behaviours of the adults around me. I was lucky to have an exceptional grandmother, companion animals and a deep appreciation of the natural world and I often withdrew and hid with these. Sometimes I kept quiet too long and then exploded in a destructive rage. I was desperate to feel I could safely fit in somewhere, so I became a people pleaser, a liar and I trusted nobody. I carried these childhood coping strategies into adulthood and more rollercoaster relationships and projects followed. Eventually, in desperation, I was guided to a peer support programme, a range of healthier coping strategies and self care tools. Gradually I got to know myself and I started to make more time for the things that are important to me. I’m a bit better at taking responsibility for the choices I make and understanding how these impact me and the world around me. Yet when I read the news and reports about biodiversity loss, animal abuse and climate change, I temporarily slip back into seeing society through the eyes of a helpless, powerless child again. Taking time out to watch the birds and other animals who live in and visit my garden, I see that most other species on Earth have a daily struggle for physical survival and I’m in awe of their resilience and determination. I don’t expect my own life to be without pain, loss, conflict and disappointments and I’m grateful for the help I’ve received that’s led me to a more meaningful life with clearer responsibilities, principles and objectives. Today I Will Remember Fear and anger can fuel emotional rollercoasters that are as stressful as they are exhausting. Sometimes strong emotions are a signal I need to tackle something difficult and I can choose to take constructive action making best use of whatever skills, experience and capacity that are available to me. “……principles above personalities.” Tradition 12, Al-Anon Family Groups Are you inspired to write?If you are inspired to write a page based on keeping well and active in an age of climate and nature emergencies, we would be pleased to hear from you. We're looking for a maximum of 380 words for each reading and it must be an original piece written by the person submitting it. All entries that are published will be anonymous.
For more information, or if you have any questions, email audrey@surefoot-effect.com Comments are closed.
|
|
Sign up TO SUREFOOT NEWS >>
The Surefoot Effect equips people, communities and organisations with skills for sustainability and resilience.
|
