Conclusion

Initially I thought that as a facilitator it was important for me to be mindful of creating safe learning spaces and bringing the whole self to learning while working with those familiar with violence. As I confronted my own fears about writing, both with the group and for this project, I came to believe that we all need to be free to make choices, care for ourselves, and learn in the ways that best suit us. We need the support of other learners around us, and we need to be gentle with ourselves and one another when learning doesn't come easily.

In the last session with Laurie, I wrote about my thoughts about being in the writing group:

I am surprised by the depth of this experience. I could understand the theory behind writing this way, but I think I had to live it to know it. So the writing this morning has surprised me—not that we have felt safe and connected, but that everyone did and that this group has meant as much as it has. I am surprised by my own joy in writing.... To write for my own enjoyment and self-discovery has been a wonderful serendipitous experience.

I do not know how I could do my work without the learning and insight I have gained from my VALTA experiences and the writing group. Kris, Alice, Doris and Wendy are amazing and courageous people who consistently blessed me with their graciousness, courage and willingness. Our time together was filled with laughter, hope, joy, pain, frustration, strength, fatigue, compassion, caring and challenge. I am forever grateful.

References

Morgan, D. (2001). Writing out loud. Edmonton, AB: Grassroots Press.

Morgan, D. (2002). More writing out loud. Edmonton, AB: Grassroots Press.