Description
How can radical presence transform trauma care?
Guest host, Tim Smith engages with Mel, an experienced foster mother and trauma care facilitator, to explore the power of empathy, grace, and consistency in caregiving. Mel shares her journey from fostering children in Ottawa to training others in the impactful methods she has learned, emphasizing the importance of understanding the needs behind behaviours. She underscores the role of the church and community in providing sustainable support, urging caregivers to balance self-care with their responsibilities. Through personal stories and profound insights, the conversation highlights the freedom found in shifting from a 'fix-it' mentality to truly being present with those in hard places.
Time Stamps
[04:45] Caring for children from traumatic backgrounds discussed.
[06:44] Started fostering 10 years ago to serve.
[11:11] Training enhanced trauma understanding and foster care perspective.
[14:33] Consistency and care helped children overcome trauma.
[19:24] Letting go for daughter's happiness and growth.
[22:20] Supporting emotional growth and understanding in children.
[25:51] Being mindful of snacks, water, and calm.
[30:27] Church must support struggling individuals effectively.
[32:11] Stay aligned with God's guidance, prioritize empathy.
[35:38] Facilitating trauma care training and personal growth.
PODCAST TRANSCRIPT
CORRESPONDING JOURNEY WITH PRAYER:
Romans 12:15-16 | A Call to Be Present
Corresponding Episode:
Care Journey | Rethinking Poverty
Passage
Romans 12:15-16
ESV (English Standard Version)
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
NLT (New Living Translation)
Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
NIV (New International Version)
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Ask Yourself
"How can I be more present and empathetic in my relationships this week, focusing on being with others rather than trying to fix their situations?"
Walk it Out
Reflect
Reflect on Romans 12:15–16. Consider how you can embody empathy and presence in your connections with others this week. Take time to introspect and journal about ways you can be more compassionate and empathetic.
Engage
Spend quality time with someone who may need emotional support this week. Simply offer your presence and a willing ear to listen. Create a safe space for someone to share their feelings and experiences without feeling judged or hurried.
Pray
Pray for those in your community who are struggling with difficult circumstances.
Pray for a deeper capacity for empathy and understanding within yourself and others.
Pray for God's grace to guide your interactions, helping you to be a beacon of His love and presence.
PODCAST TRANSCRIPT
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