Lismore: Trauma and Healing

Dearest friends and Parkinson's family.

At times nature sends us incredible periods of extreme duress and no matter which way we approach this, no matter how hard we try to put a positive spin on it, our hearts sink into a state of despair. 

As a resident of a flattened and devastated town, although well out of flood reach ourselves, our only real loss being five days without power and the inconvenience of cold showers, black coffee and the loss of all perishables in our refrigerator, we are still suffering alongside members of our community as they try to deal with their hurt and loss.

Many of us who have been high and dry on the surrounding hills of this beautiful area, while out of reach of these cruel waters, are not out of reach of the impact on our community. As have the flood waters greedily battered and buffeted our city streets, rolling through and washing away the hearts, homes and livelihoods of our people, in its aftermath we are finding our emotions are now too being battered, buffeted and are equally hard to control. It helps to remember these wise words from Katherine Mackenett who says, " Now, every time I witness a strong person, I want to know: What darkness did you conquer in your story? Mountains don’t rise without earthquakes."

I am truly thankful to the people of Lismore. They give me heart and the million acts of kindness, the myriad of selfless acts , the warmth and willingness of people to reach out to this community have been incredible. In magnanimous or tiny ways this community has rallied and shown its support, all serving to strengthen our community and draw us closer. It gives the community heart when so many travel from all across this nation, far and wide, to lend a hand. We have many, many reasons to be thankful and recognition of this continues to give a lift. Inevitably, tempers may fray. 

Some will respond with anger and it may be directed at those who least deserve it. Now is the time for deep understanding, gentle tolerance and heartfelt compassion.I am very proud of those who have done so much so far. This will definitely not be a short term inconvenience. As waters recede and people move back into the flooded homes and business premises, many are sadly discovering collapsed roofs, structural damage and other problems that are severely compromising the safety of these buildings. If they can be repaired, it will be a long, slow process. “There is no timestamp on trauma. 

There isn’t a formula that you can insert yourself into to get from horror to healed. Be patient. 

Take up space. Let your journey be the balm.” — Dawn Serra "Trauma creates change you don’t choose. Healing is about creating change you do choose. "– Michelle Rosenthal 

What a great opportunity to choose wisely, Lismore.