In the heart of nature, amid the tranquil scenes of a nearby trail leading to a serene pond, a fascinating spectacle unfolds with each passing season. My neighbor Jan and I have become avid observers of the intricate dance of life played out by the Canada geese and their fellow feathered companions. But it is during mating and nesting season that the true drama of nature unfolds before our eyes.

The geese, usually living harmoniously among themselves and other creatures, undergo a remarkable change in attitude during this time. The ganders enter a state of heightened protectiveness over their space and kin. It's a sight both comical and awe-inspiring to behold as they puff up their chests, bob their heads, and hiss with all the theatrics of a seasoned performer. Their determination to safeguard their territory is palpable, their commitment unwavering.

Yet, beneath the surface of this avian spectacle lies a profound reflection of our own psyche. As I watch these creatures fiercely defend their nests, it's impossible not to see parallels with the protective mechanisms ingrained within us. Like the geese, our brains are hardwired to ensure our survival, to keep us safe from perceived threats. But what happens when this instinctual drive veers off course, when our minds become entangled in a web of fears and anxieties spun from past traumas?

I find myself pondering the nature of our internal programming, how our brains, like intricate software, can sometimes glitch, connecting dots that don't truly align. The result? A constant state of hypervigilance, where every corner hides a potential danger, every interaction a possible threat. It's a relentless cycle, one that robs us of the joys and pleasures that life has to offer.

Yet, amidst this tumult, there comes a moment of clarity, a series of insights that lift us out of the swirling chaos of our survival brain. We come to realize that our happiness cannot be entrusted solely to the whims of our analytical mind. Yes, our brains excel at keeping us alive, but they lack the capacity for true fulfillment and contentment. They are but passengers on the journey of our lives, not the captains of our destiny.

In this newfound understanding, we discover a wellspring of power, a source of creativity and wellbeing that transcends the limitations of our rational mind. It's a force as ancient as the earth itself, guiding seeds to sprout into towering trees and eggs to hatch into wondrous creatures. And within each of us, it whispers softly, "You are safe. You are loved. You are enough."

For true safety, we need not look to external circumstances or fortify our defenses like the ganders on the pond. Instead, we must turn inward, quieting the noise of our minds to listen to the gentle reassurance of our inner sanctuary. It's a place of boundless potential, where fear gives way to trust, and anxiety yields to peace.
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So, as Jan and I pass by the vigilant gander on our trail, we offer our silent reassurance, our words of love and encouragement. "We're not here to harm you," we say, "only to witness your beauty and cheer you on as you thrive." And in that moment, amidst the rustling reeds and gentle breeze, we find a fleeting glimpse of harmony, both in nature and within ourselves.

Dear Friends,

Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, shaping us in the process. My journey has been a testament to this truth—a journey marked by trauma, addiction, and the relentless pursuit of healing and transformation.

I've walked a path laden with hardships from a young age. Raised in a strict, religious environment where fear and rigidity were the norm, I learned early on to navigate a world fraught with impossible standards and looming consequences. Traumatic events peppered my childhood, leaving me feeling unsafe and insecure, seeking solace in the fleeting comfort of large amounts of sweet and starchy foods.

In my teens, rebellion took hold, leading me down a tumultuous path of cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, destructive relationships, and bulimia. A decade slipped away in a blur of chaos and self-destruction until a pivotal moment in my late-20s forced me to confront the reality that my chosen path was unsustainable.

Thus began a decades-long journey of self-discovery and healing. From ED treatment to therapy sessions to 12-step programs, I embarked on a quest to mend what felt like broken pieces of my soul. Yet, despite fleeting moments of relief, traditional recovery programs did not work for me. Shame and powerlessness remained constant companions, echoing my tumultuous past.

In my early 40s, I stumbled upon the concept of Intuitive Eating, hoping to find peace with food and my body. Then came Energy Psychology and The Law of Attraction. But even these seemingly promising approaches that initially provided some hope and temporary success proved futile, leaving me grappling with the same old demons in a new guise.

In my 50s, the relentless quest to "fix" myself continued, now with a binge eating disorder diagnosis and still believing that weight loss held the key to my happiness. From grueling green juice fasts to exhaustive detoxes, I spared no effort in pursuing every conceivable avenue toward mental and physical transformation. I immersed myself in the intricacies of nutrition and devoured every self-help strategy I could find in search of a solution to my struggles with food. Yet, despite my fervent efforts, a nagging sense of discontent lingered beneath the surface and the binge eating continued.

Then, like a beacon in the darkness, I discovered a new paradigm—a radical shift in perspective that shattered the chains of my past and illuminated a path to true freedom. Through the lens of this transformative approach, I found liberation from addiction and self-doubt. The Wayne Dyer quote, "change the way you look at things and the things you look at change" never felt more true.

Today, in my 60s, I stand before you not as a survivor, but as a true thriver—a testament to the boundless potential that lies within each of us. As a transformational coach, I am committed to guiding others on their journey to wholeness and freedom, offering a compassionate hand to those navigating the turbulent waters of change.

If you find yourself weighed down by the burdens of your past or struggling to break free from the chains of an unwanted habit or addiction, know that you are not alone. Together, we can rewrite the narrative of your life, uncovering the limitless potential that lies dormant within you.

For in the depths of our darkest moments lies the spark of our greatest triumph—the unwavering light of the human spirit, shining brightly against the backdrop of adversity.

With love and solidarity,

Joan Strimple
Transformational Coach