A poem from Iris Rose’s book fragile feelings delves into some of the complex emotions that arises from experiencing a traumatic event.
“My trauma did not make me stronger, it made me fragile, sensitive, and dysfunctional.”
This is an impactful opening line which acknowledges a difficult truth many individuals who have faced trauma at some point in their lives have experienced—the feeling of weakness. A common sentiment expressed to empower those faced with adversity is to affirm how what someone has gone through will only make them stronger. While it is a well-intentioned sentiment, sometimes people are not looking to hear such consolations, as it may imply what happened to them was necessary to some degree. It is important to acknowledge that while experiencing adverse situations could foster resiliency, it does not negate that many are left feeling weak and vulnerable, and that is okay.
“I struggle to trust good people. I feel exhausted doing basic tasks. I always feel behind, running on empty.”
These lines confess the devastating emotions that arise for many, such as facing trust issues and mental exhaustion. Enduring adversities hinders the ability to navigate through life, with complex emotions of distrust for others and feelings of instability in one’s own life.
“Trauma does not strengthen people, it completely shatters them.”
This final line is painful to accept; however, it is the truth for many. While it is encouraged to view life with an optimistic perspective when coping with trauma, it is equally crucial to avoid suppressing the negative voices that arise from it and acknowledge that sometimes trauma makes us weak and that is okay!
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