In this week’s readings the author Chellis Glendenning writes “We might consider that this historic alteration in our nature, or at least in how we express our nature, came about as the result of something unnatural that happened to us….Because we are creatures of the earth who were born to live in vital participation with the natural world, the violation of this participation forms the basis of original trauma…Original Trauma is the disorientation we experience, however consciously or unconsciously, because we do not live in the natural world. It is the psychic displacement, the exile, that is inherent in civilized life. It is our homelessness.” (pg. 64) 1.) Please discuss your thoughts and feelings about the author’s premise. Could it offer additional insights into understanding past and current crisis’/traumas afflicting person and planet? 2.) On pg. 66 the same author also cites Sigmund Freud. Curious of your thoughts regarding his conclusions later in life and conclusions that seem to counter his earlier writings and approaches towards working with individuals? 3.) The author goes on to cite several others to support her hypothesis. Do any social work theories come to mind in re-reading pgs. 66-68? 4.) Lastly, please comment on Lyla June’s essay on Reclaiming Our Indigenous European Roots. Any additional thoughts considering she is also of Cherokee and Dine descent?
