Healing with Welcome

We know that stress can have a negative impact on the human body. Prolonged periods of stress can not only show up in various diseases, but also chemical abuse and mental illness. A single traumatic event can have lasting effects.  We have seen high rates of suicide among those returning from war, itself a series of traumatic events.

What is happening to the children of Ukraine and Gaza now, or the children who fled Syria or Rwanda?  What will heal the emotional scars of the horrors they have experienced?

We know that those who have witnessed and felt the terror of war and brutality often find it hard to let down their guard and learn to trust again.

What happens when trauma continues through generations, as it has for indigenous people here in the United States, or people whose ancestors were brutally enslaved, then terrorized after slavery ended?

Those who treat survivors of deep trauma tell us that words and actions that show welcome and respect are key. Communities with returning soldiers or anyone who has suffered trauma might be helpful in learning how to bring them home and return a sense of security. This is crucial so that they can heal themselves and be in healthy relationships with their families, their neighbors, their community and their world.

Here are some ideas, some words that would be followed by actions to demonstrate the sincerity of the words.

You are Welcome.

You are a Blessing.

You and your family are valued.

You and your culture have a sacred purpose.

You and your community are respected.

You have cultural and societal-based teachings and I can learn from you. 

You have a sacred space here.

You are Welcome.