Two of the most difficult things for a trauma survivor to do are to sit in silence and to be alone. Silence can be very difficult because our minds are not always kind. In solitude, it becomes harder to escape the mind, the looping memories, the old stories, and the pain that resurfaces. We replay what happened, reinforcing beliefs that we’re unworthy, unlovable, or broken. So we avoid stillness. We keep ourselves busy, distracted, plugged into anything that helps us outrun the noise. Yet, paradoxically, it is in silence that true healing begins. It’s in solitude where the deep work of meeting ourselves happens.

Maybe you’re like me.

The thing about rainstorms is they’re temporary — but when you’re in the middle of one, it doesn’t feel that way. The blue sky darkens, the roar surrounds you, and the heavens open. Rain soaks you to the bone until your senses are overwhelmed. All you can think about is finding shelter.