A while back, I was having trouble sleeping. It went on for several nights.
Anyone who lasts in a trauma-focused work environment will tell you that you need to implement personal protective measures to keep yourself healthy. The stories and pain you see and hear, whether at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, a hospital Emergency Room, a homeless shelter, or the bedside of a hospice patient, can eat at your faith in God and humanity. One important skill is to compartmentalize the stories and pain you hear during the workday and not take them home with you. Taking them home can interfere with personal relationships, spirituality, self-care, and sleep.
I am usually pretty good at compartmentalizing. I remind myself that most people are good. I look at the many blessings from God in each day. I set aside “transition time” going to and from work to separate one from the other. I focus on the successes I’ve seen in Ranch children that day. I remember to laugh.
But, every once in a while, a story gets stuck.
One of the newest kids to come to the Ranch is an 11-year-old boy whose stepparent and stepsibling abused him together… sexually, verbally, emotionally, and physically. He is really hurting. His behavior is explosive and violent and profane. He also smiles easily, and his face is cherubic.
Right now, honestly, there is no fancy, high-level therapy or medical care going on. That will come later. Simple safety, patience, listening, personal care (food, clothing, shelter), and again, safety.
Every hurting and damaged child is evidence of evil in our world. Evil that makes it hard to sleep.
The wonderful folks at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch will stand beside this child and walk every step with him as he heals. We can do that because of your prayers and support… and our faith in God’s compassion and mercy.
Knowing that, we can all sleep well.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
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