Five Reasons Why You Should Never Say, “Sh*t happens,” to a Survivor.

It is rude, insensitive, and totally offensive. It negates the impact of brutal systemic crime on the lives of a child, adolescent or adult. Anyone who minimizes criminal violence depicts the height of desensitization or compassion burnout. This is usually the reality for social workers, not average citizens. It is like telling someone whose spouse, child or parent was murdered, “Get over it.” It can…

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Resolutions and Affirmations

Add some early morning exercise and stretches to my wake up routine. Have two cups of tea or strong coffee before uttering a word to anyone. Take stock of my physical status (pain levels, tiredness, hunger, etc.) Plan how to attack the pain without ending up dopey from medications. The goal is always to be clear-headed so I can write and continue reading the work…

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