Resiliency isn’t a bullet proof vest
How do you define resilience? Many might think of a titanium vest that deflects bullets or adversity: a protective shell that protects from harm.
Recently, I have come to understand resiliency as something softer, sweeter.
It’s the ability to work through emotions rather than shutting them down.
To be able to slow down time when the world around us is speeding up.
It’s about making space to really talk and listen to the people who are important to us, asking for what we need and learning to be emotionally present without judgement.
The work of resiliency happens behind close doors, in sharing circles.
Injured Veterans and First Responders often complain that they are too quick to experience sadness. They view it as evidence of injury since they used to be able to “turn their emotions off.” Me, I view it as a sign of recovery. Emotional availability is resiliency starting to take shape.
A wise First Responder recently shared a Thomas Edison quote with me that captures the notion of resiliency quite succinctly: Most people miss opportunity and look over it because they don’t recognize it looks like overalls and hard work.
Together, we ‘ll strap on our coveralls and not be afraid to stir up some dust. Ultimately that’s what allows clarity.
But it’s not all about hard work. We also need to have fun. We’re excited to announce the launch of our new program Date Night. It’s a chance to reconnect with the fun, playful side of yourself and enjoy a stress-free evening with a close friend or partner. Join us for an evening of creativity, conversation and connection. The first Date Night starts on Thursday, October 13th from 6-9 pm. Thanks to the support of Employment and Social Development Canada, there is no fee for this program. Light refreshments are provided.
We are also registering participants for our second round of Creating Confidence Clarifying Strengths, scheduled to start November 1, 2022. This feel-good program is receiving rave reviews and has no fee thanks to the generous funding of ACOA.
Call (902) 472-2972 or email info@landingstrong.com to register.
Warm regards,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.Executive Director, Landing Strong
