The Red Drumstick
I go to therapy a couple times a week. There are a lot of objects and tools I can touch and use to make me feel safe. But the one that I treasure most is the red drumstick sitting on the table in the corner. I almost always grab it whenever I feel uncomfortable or unsafe or just need some extra support.
It may seem unimportant to an outside observer, but the drumstick has strength and direction and helps me find my voice.
And it's red. The red in the stick contains my anger. It makes everything safe.
Today I found out that when brought together with its twin brother, they can create some peaceful rhythms.
I could have said my piano, my brain, my computers, my house, or my money were the things I treasure. But the red drumstick allows all those other things to exist.
If you've read any of the posts here, you know that I advocate multiple approaches to healing from trauma. Expressive writing is one such approach. This was written at an inpatient group in about 10 minutes. The directive was to "write about an object you treasure." Earlier that morning, my therapist brought the sticks, along with other rhythm instruments, to a group where we explored rhythm and sound. I found that group to be healing and I was thankful she brought the sticks.
Such writing does not need to occur in a hospital. You can do these directives and explore multiple approaches in therapy or on your own. The goal is to find what works for you.
Welcome
"Healing from Trauma and Dissociation"
I'm Paul, a father, husband, scientist, educator, photographer and musician. I'm also a survivor of childhood sexual abuse.
Mind Parts consists of my own insights on the aftermath of childhood sexual abuse, namely trauma stress and the full spectrum of dissociative coping mechanisms, including dissociative identities. Through a blog, I explore the healing process in a variety of ways—using creative contributions of original art, photography, poetry, and music as well as, hopefully, though-provoking essays. Mind Parts is also home to two support services. The quarterly Ezine Trauma Recovery Highlights is a look at some of the best online resources. Also, the monthly Expressive Arts Carnival makes available activities which are published as a group "Carnival."
Comments are welcomed, but if you prefer, you may contact me offline. My belief is that sites like this one can contribute by offering unique perspectives and knowledge, thereby enhancing opportunities not only for survivors but for readers and society as a whole. Namaste!
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