The Boulders in My Life That Shaped My Journey

Episode Four: The Boulders in My Life that Shaped My Journey is a powerful and poignant collection of poetry by author Honey Badger, who bravely shares her personal narrative of overcoming military sexual trauma. Through her evocative verses, she delves into the complexities of body memories, the weight of grief, and the transformative journey of rising above adversity. Each poem serves as a testament to resilience, inviting readers to connect with the raw emotions and experiences that shape her story. This collection not only highlights the struggles faced by survivors but also emphasizes the importance of listening to and believing their voices.

 Honey Badger's work is a call to action, urging society to stand with survivors and actively combat rape culture. The themes of courage and empowerment resonate throughout the collection, making it a vital read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of trauma and the strength it takes to heal. By sharing her journey through poetry, Honey Badger not only offers solace to those who have faced similar challenges but also inspires a broader conversation about support and advocacy for survivors. This collection is not just a book; it is a movement towards awareness, understanding, and change.

Dive into the profound journey of self-discovery and healing with "The Boulders in My Life that Shaped My Journey" by author Honey Badger. This compelling collection, part of the Episode Three series, invites readers to explore the raw and unfiltered emotions experienced during the author's time in the Navy. Through poignant poetry, Honey Badger shares personal narratives that illuminate the struggles of post-traumatic stress, self-destructive behaviors, and the path to recovery. Each poem serves as a testament to resilience, encouraging readers to confront their own truths and find solace in shared experiences.

 This powerful anthology not only showcases the beauty of vulnerability but also emphasizes the importance of listening to and standing with survivors. Honey Badger's evocative verses resonate deeply, offering a voice to those who have faced similar battles. By writing to heal, the author creates a safe space for reflection and connection, making this book an essential read for anyone seeking understanding and support. Whether you are a veteran, a loved one of a survivor, or simply someone on a journey of self-exploration, this collection will inspire you to embrace your truth and find strength in your story.

Discover the transformative journey of healing in "The Boulders in My Life that Shaped MY Journey: Episode Ten." In this poignant installment, author Honey Badger delves into her personal experiences with Post Traumatic Stress and Military Sexual Trauma, revealing how the power of poetry became a catalyst for her recovery. Through the innovative techniques of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and somatic movement, she shares her path to healing, offering readers a unique perspective on overcoming trauma. This episode not only highlights the importance of addressing mental health but also emphasizes the therapeutic potential of creative expression.

Honey Badger's narrative is both raw and inspiring, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences while providing practical insights into the healing process. With a blend of personal anecdotes and professional guidance, this episode serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges. Whether you are seeking solace in your own journey or looking to support someone else, this powerful exploration of resilience and recovery is a must-read. Embrace the healing power of words and movement, and let Honey Badger's story guide you toward your own path of transformation.

A Poem about the spirals of healing. 

Choose, is a powerful poem that addresses choices.

Imagine facing a routine medical procedure only to have it morph into a harrowing ordeal, reawakening past traumas you thought had been laid to rest. Our courageous Julie Jewels Smoot, a survivor of PTSD, lays bare the soul-wrenching reality of Medical PTSD Triggering, sharing the distressing aftermath of a pelvic exam gone wrong. The conversation we have is as heartrending as it is eye-opening, calling attention to the necessity for trauma-informed care within the healthcare system. Her story, as much a lesson as a lament, underscores the need for medical professionals to honor patient histories and preserve their dignity—a topic she has also explored through poetry in her  book "The Journey Back to Myself: A Book of Healing Poetry, Second Edition."

When a voice calls out for understanding and is met with silence, the repercussions can be profound. This episode takes an unflinching look at the consequences of not being heard, as described by our Julie Jewels Smoot whose traumatic history was dismissed by the very institution tasked with her care. Her narration, punctuated by there experiences at the VA and the triggering of a body memory response, calls for a radical shift in the way we listen to and affirm survivors. The conversation is a pledge of solidarity with those who have endured similar journeys and a potent reminder of the power of validation—a theme echoed in the poetry from their book, offering solace and strength to fellow travelers on the road to healing.

Struggle and triumph are the twin themes of our latest episode as we share the heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of Julie Jewels Smoot who has fought through the darkness of PTSD to find a creative and healing light. Her candid narrative paints a vivid picture of the ongoing battle with flashbacks and the relentless quest to release the grip of a traumatic past. Through tears and resilience, Julie Jewels Smoot exemplifies the power of storytelling as a means of catharsis, revealing their multifaceted identity as a dancer, author, poet, and Reiki practitioner.

We sit down with this extraordinary individual who opens up about living in the aftermath of profound betrayal and pain, yet who also demonstrates unyielding courage and hope. The conversation touches on the complexities of therapy, the challenges of confronting grief and fear, and the strength it takes to reclaim a life with purpose and joy. Every word spoken is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, offering listeners a window into the arduous, yet possible, journey from surviving to thriving. Join us in bearing witness to a story not only of survival, but of transformation and the relentless pursuit of peace.  

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When trust is shattered in the darkest of circumstances, the journey to reclaim one's voice can be both excruciating and enlightening. Our latest episode bears witness to an unforgettable story of resilience as we share space with a remarkable individual whose life was irrevocably altered by betrayal and systemic failure. She recounts the violation by someone she considered a friend, and the dreams crushed under the weight of that terrible night. This isn't just a personal narrative; it's a stark illumination of the institutional injustice that too often follows acts of sexual assault within the military.

Julie Jewels Smoot peels back the layers of her harrowing experience, she exposes the harrowing aftermath: a chain of command entangled in protecting the perpetrator while punishing the victim, leading to an administrative discharge that stands in stark contrast to the assailant's promotion. This episode promises a raw, unfiltered exploration into the depths of one survivor's battle for justice and the courage to confront a flawed system. Witness the power of reclaiming a story, the strength in shedding undue shame, and the relentless pursuit of truth in the face of adversity.  

#PTSD #growth #MST #courage #empowerment #thebouldersinmylifethatshapedmyjourney #thejourneybacktomyselfabookofhealingpoetrysecondedition #selfhealing #healing

"Parts of Myself Left Behind" is a poignant and evocative poem by Sound Alchemist Honey Badger. that delves into the intricate layers of human emotion and self-discovery. This literary work invites readers on a reflective journey, exploring themes of loss, identity, and the enduring impact of past experiences. Smoot's masterful use of language and imagery creates a vivid tapestry that resonates deeply, allowing readers to connect with their own personal narratives while contemplating the fragments of themselves that remain in the wake of change.

Healing the Warrior's Heart is an immersive sound bath experience designed to facilitate profound self-healing and emotional release. At the core of this unique offering is the Mars Gong, an instrument renowned for its powerful vibrations that resonate deeply within the body and spirit. Participants are invited to lie down comfortably as the soothing sounds envelop them, creating a serene environment conducive to relaxation and introspection. The session encourages individuals to connect with their breath, allowing them to enter a meditative state where they can explore their inner landscape and release pent-up emotions.