Occasionally, early childhood experiences make it difficult for some individuals to experience a sense of safety in their lives. Perhaps they struggle with symptoms of complex trauma (Herman, 1997). From the perspective of the hero’s journey, during the period of ego development and preparation, when safety was most required, it was lacking, resulting in difficulty taking on life's adventures. Under optimal life circumstances, children grow up feeling safe, become young adults and begin experiencing the victory of obstacles and challenges overcome. Instead, those who live with unresolved trauma are often steeped in fear and anxiety as they are left to face life's challenges without the necessary confidence and tools to do so.
During the initiation phase of the journey (as we set out challenging the beliefs we grew up with, expanding our view of the world, etc.) we are asked to “let go of control, sentiment, safety, predictability, and concern for physical safety” (Pearson, 1991) in order to embark on the initiation phase of the hero's journey. The trials of the journey are meant to become our victories of initiation, but without proper ego development and a strong anchor/sense of safety, the trials of life can easily become cycles of pain without insight and strength gains to propel us forward.
When I work with clients who have experienced complex childhood trauma, I often recall Stephen Porges in his youtube.com interview with William Stranger who asked “Who are we when we feel safe?” and “What could the range of human behavior be if we feel safe?” (Stranger & Porges, 2013) These are profound questions that I strive to answer with my clients and in my own life. Whether it be coaching, mentorship, or some other avenue of spiritual stewardship these questions resonate in my mind.
Despite my own lack of proper ego development early in life and related defenses that developed, I know from experience that the hero’s journey is still possible. Training in embodied mindfulness and developing an inner spiritual life that helped me feel connected to Source and others was my way of overcoming complex trauma. Today, relying on my own strong sense of safety in the world based on my connection/anchor into the earth mother I surrender myself into my life and into my work of supporting others on their journey. Today, I trust in my tool of Presence as a healing modality for myself and others. I support others in finding their own sense of Presence through embodiment practices, The hero's journey is meant for each of us.
