Locked in Fear
Perhaps once a year, Dr. W. has mentioned "Take Charge",
an organization that teaches full force self defense. He had
attended a graduation and was so impressed that he later took
part in a weekend workshop for therapists. He wished to know
more in case he decided to recommend the experience to a client.
It had always sounded like a great idea for someone else to
do but now it spoke to me. I asked my child self how she felt
about her defense capabilities. This painting was her reply.
So I called them. They have one opening left for the class beginning
in two weeks. There are five sessions of six hours each, all
within a two-week period of time. It will be a challenging way
to celebrate my 54th birthday.
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Turning
the Tables
I don't feel threatened in my world today. The decision to "Take
Charge" is a gift I am giving to my child self. I want
her to feel safe and powerful. She exhibits confidence and good
form in this image painted towards the end of the course. There
were fourteen women in the class. All of us knew what it was
to be assaulted and have no means of defense. Some were totally
panicked to be touched by a man. We had two courageous and compassionate
men, highly athletic instructors, who played the part of assailants.
They were well padded. We learned to deliver full force blows,
placed in such a way as to put them out of action. We had a
marvelous female instructor right beside us, coaching and encouraging
every step of the way. When panic stopped us, she helped turn
that terror into action-full force self defense. Three past
graduates filled out the instructional team. They gave support
and kept us moving. With their skills and each woman's commitment,
the class bonded as a group in the first session. I was the
oldest by fifteen years and not in the best of shape. Although
we each had handicaps to overcome or work within, there was
never any doubt that we would all emerge triumphant.
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