Humans have been working with trauma for eons. We have always been coping with wars, genocides, death, illness, and natural disaster. Overcoming these things builds resilience and grit. It is in our DNA to overcome and survive.
Can trauma be a catalyst for profound awakening? In my experience, it can. I have walked with myself through trauma and into a level of awakening at different times, and I have witnessed thousands of clients also transform (in a good way) because of their trauma.
Does this mean we have to be grateful for our trauma? NO! We are likely to experience all of the trauma symptoms, incredible discomfort, and distress. We are pretty unlikely to be thankful for the trauma at any time.
It is traumas that gives the hero something to overcome. Something to focus on to build inner resilience. In many indigenous cultures coming of age, rituals involve an element of hardship, something to overcome, transforming the boy or girl into a man or woman.
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I would love to hear your thoughts. Have you found that healing trauma has been a catalyst for awakening?
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Reference
Peter A. Levine, Healing Trauma: A Pioneering Program for Restoring the Wisdom of Your Body