Holiday Triggers - When Many Celebrate - Others Weep

When we think about holidays and major events throughout the year, it is about the celebration. People become excited leading up the moments to gather, connect and embrace fun events. It gives people something positive to look forward too, and for those who are embracing these moments with happiness and joy - that is wonderful - life fulfilling.

For other people the view looks very different leading up to what should be a joyous occasion. When there are negative emotions surrounded by an event, the triggers can set someone into “fight or flight” mode because of unresolved past trauma. Sometimes, things stay with us forever no matter how much self-work that we do.

As an adult survivor of abuse, there have been many moments for me that have been uncomfortable and triggering. Even though I have done so much work on healing, grounding myself and truly doing the work, the past still continues to tap me on the shoulder from time to time, reminding me that “the beast” still remains from within.

The difference now is that I have learned so much about myself (self awareness), and I mentally prepare ahead of time, so that my triggers are minimal. I am not saying this is easy, because it is not. It takes alot of work and commitment to the process, but one I highly recommend so that you can release the pains of the past working through the darkness.

Today is St. Patrick’s Day and for countless people around the world they will be celebrating BIG. This will be a weeklong event; the parades and different establishments have their own take on the celebration.

Ceiliúradh

The Irish term for "celebration" is "ceiliúradh." This term is commonly used to refer to various types of celebrations, including ceremonies and festivities.

I am always happy for people who embrace their culture as they celebrate life, love and community.

As for me…

This day has always held a different meaning. I still struggle with the “pains of the past”, as this day marks my brother’s birthday. John Patrick Sega born March 17, 1963 and passed away on April 22, 1972 at the age of Nine years old. He died from Leukemia, and during that ERA there were limited options for treatment, so he struggled for two years before succumbing to his illness.

I was the younger sister, and him and I had the most incredible bond. It was beyond the normal bond of siblings. He was my best friend, and my protector. YES, my protector because our mother suffered from mental illness and her instabilities made our home a scary place to be, but he shielded me from the storm.

I was six years old when he left this earth, and my world blew up before my eyes. So much had transpired after that day, and my life was completely shattered. (My memoir - The Unspoken Truth).

Here I am so many years later, and the pings of the past still reveal themselves. As other’s celebrate, I sit in solitude as I think back to a time in my life that seems so far away but vivid at the same time.

Today I honor John Patrick and all the goodness that he brought to me so long ago. I can still see his smile, hear his laughter and remember his quirky - funny personality. He would always entertain me in the best ways. He continues to walk with me every single day, and I feel him guiding me. I love him always. He is my guardian angel.

Please remember to offer kindness because you never know what people may be going through. The internal battle of the soul.

If you are out there today celebrating I say “Cheers” to you, and if you are sitting in solidary; I walk with you. Always remember to be kind to yourself because you are worth it.

Mental health matters.

Embrace the Journey,

Lisa

Author - Child & Mental Health Advocate - Public Speaker - Blogger - Social Media Influencer

The Unspoken Truth A Memoir

The Book of Joann

Lisa and Jon Jon

His last birthday - March 17, 1972