My heart breaks over the unprecedented Southern CA wildfires.

Healing through catastrophic tragedy mentally, emotionally & spiritually gave me, not only the will to live, but profound self-acceptance, peace and gratitude.  Once again, I am personally reliving my own experiences of wildfire evacuation by being on high alert to flee at a moments notice.

This compelled me to share my feelings and wisdom I've gained through my expereinces of crisis, chaos, death and loss as my way of supporting others suffering from overwhelming emotions of shock, anger, pain, hurt, despair, hopelessness....

The human brain is built for survival, especially when it comes to life or death situations.  It designed to shut off emotions to either fight or flee.  We need this function to step into functional action for the best chances for survival. 

Once the eminent danger has subsided, the brain disengages from the fear-based fight/flight function, it's imperative to allow the emotions and feelings to emerge.  This is the most important first step to healing and recovery.  There is then an opening for understanding and the ability to process making sense of our experiences. 

We, then can gain greater perspectives that transform the pain into peace.....