Holding Space

This year has brought overwhelming challenges to us as individuals, to our communities, and to our country.  We are experiencing isolation due to a pandemic and uncertainty from a highly charged political environment.  In addition, we are currently experiencing a global social movement with images on the news, heartfelt messages from families and loved ones, and seeing the agony and pain from our community. At least one of these significant issues touches every aspect of our lives and it wears on us emotionally, psychologically and spiritually.  I see and hear so many others hurting while trying to make sense and meaning of it all, I am experiencing this too.  Sociologist Kai Erikson’s definition of collective trauma is a shock “to the basic tissues of social life that damages the bonds attaching people together and impairs the prevailing sense of community.” Collective trauma is affecting us all right now, and each of us responds in different ways.  The bonds we have with others are damaged and can also be different for each person. Samaritan Center staff are here to help you heal and help our community heal, too.  We do this through listening, by helping you feel safe, and by connecting in a safe space.  At the Center, we offer opportunities for each person to share their story and the impact of living in these times.  We hold space for diverse feelings and experiences. We name the trauma, we listen, and we help people cope with the feelings of confusion, shame, fear, hurt, sadness, anger, and rage. We care, my friends.  Samaritan Center stands for social justice, equality, and human rights for all.  Let us be there for you. [contact-form][contact-field label='Do you have questions or comments for Shawna?' type='textarea' required='1'/][contact-field label='Name' type='name' required='1'/][contact-field label='Email' type='email' required='1'/][/contact-form]