The Boulders in My Life That Shaped My Journey

"Remember You Matter and Be True to Yourself" is a profound poem crafted by Navy Veteran and Sound Alchemist Julie Jewels Smoot, designed to resonate deeply with individuals seeking empowerment and self-affirmation. This evocative piece serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value each person holds, encouraging readers to embrace their unique identities and experiences. Through her poignant words, Smoot weaves a narrative that emphasizes the importance of self-worth and authenticity, making it an essential read for anyone navigating the complexities of life and personal growth.

 The poem encapsulates themes of strength and resilience, inviting readers to reflect on their journeys and the challenges they have overcome. Smoot's background as a Navy Veteran adds a layer of depth to her message, as she draws from her own experiences to inspire others. The language employed in the poem is both uplifting and compassionate, fostering a sense of community and understanding among those who may feel isolated or undervalued. By promoting the idea of healing through self-acceptance, Smoot encourages individuals to confront their struggles with courage and grace.

 In addition to its literary merit, "Remember You Matter and Be True to Yourself" serves as a powerful tool for personal development and emotional healing. The poem can be utilized in various settings, such as workshops, therapy sessions, or personal reflection, making it a versatile resource for individuals and groups alike. By engaging with Smoot's work, readers are not only inspired to acknowledge their worth but are also equipped with the motivation to pursue their true selves unapologetically. This poem stands as a testament to the transformative power of words and the importance of nurturing one's inner strength.

After being raped by a fellow service member I was emotionally abused. I was victim blamed, shamed and told that I was nothing. I turned to writing my feelings down in a journal. You can find my journal entries in my book, The Boulders in My Life That Shaped My Journey and, in my book, The Journey Back to Myself: A Book of Healing Poetry, Second Edition.

Experience the raw emotions of Navy Veteran and Sound Alchemist Julie Jewels Smoot through her powerful poem about the pain of victim blaming, shaming, and emotional abuse. In "Feeling Alone," Smoot shares her personal journey of healing and self-discovery, offering a glimpse into the struggles faced by survivors of abuse. This poignant work is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of trauma and the power of resilience.

Tears is a poem I wrote while on deployment. It is in my book, The Boulders in My Life That Shaped My Journey and The Journey Back to Myself: A Book of Healing Poetry, Second Edition.

Here I  shares my powerful poem, Shut Up and Listen to Survivors that she wrote while she was advocating for herself and other survivors of Military Sexual Trauma with the US Congress. 

Navigating the hidden minefields within the healthcare system, survivors of trauma often find themselves in a silent war where their voices go unheard, their experiences invalidated. We're joined by an inspiring guest, who shares their chilling journey as a PTSD survivor - from the cold examination rooms of the VA to the desperate search for a semblance of understanding in a world that often turns a deaf ear to their cries for a trauma-informed approach. Through their eyes, we witness the profound impact of healthcare encounters on individuals with a history of sexual assault, and we're reminded of the heavy burden carried by those who serve in silence.

This conversation extends beyond a recount of personal trials; it is a call to action for empathy and change within our medical institutions. Our guest, author of "The Journey Back to Myself: A Book of Healing Poetry," brings forth their poignant poetry as a beacon for others navigating this tumultuous path. The episode serves as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of being heard, urging healthcare providers to not only listen but to believe the testimonies of survivors. As we explore these sobering accounts, we're moved to reflect on the urgent need for sensitivity in medical care - a change that can't come soon enough.

Finding My Voice is a powerful poem.  With profound insights and heartfelt emotions,  Honey Badger1 takes readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through her poetic words, she encourages individuals to embrace their unique voices and find the strength to overcome life's challenges. A must-read for poetry enthusiasts and those seeking inspiration, Finding My Voice is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

A poem about dissociating. 

A Poem about the power of being a energy warrior 

Waves a powerful poem about being betrayed and hurt by a chain of command that is supposed to be there to protect those who are raped by fellow service members. I didn’t enlist to be raped by one of my fellow service members. I didn’t enlist to be victim blamed, shamed and retaliated against while the bastard who raped me got Sailor of the Month. You can get a copy of my book, The Boulders in My Life That Shaped My Journey and The Journey Back to Myself: A Book of Healing Poetry, Second Edition.

Feelings is a heartfelt poem that was written by an author during their deployment in 2006. It is a part of the book, The Boulders in My Life That Shaped My Journey, which is tells her true story of surviving military sexual trauma, emotional abuse, retaliation, victim blaming/shaming and lives with Post Traumatic Stress. This poem captures the emotions and experiences of the author during their time in service, and is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve their country. The book is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by military personnel who are raped by fellow service members.