Here are the journal entries on my experiences at North Central Michigan College:
October 27, 2014
The tears started to flow when the first class came through the installation. The Scarlet Cord continues to promote healing.
A professor said, “A visceral experience: Entering the container was like entering their world.”
October 28, 2014
When a student started crying, another visitor was moved to tears and shared a bit about her own sexual trauma. The two of them embraced.
So much pain and trauma oozed from a young person whom I spoke with. Within minutes, I realized the best advice was to point the individual to the Women’s Resource Center in Petoskey where professionals could help. We also discussed how caring professors wanted to see the student succeed. The student said, “But I’m so ashamed of my past. I don’t want anyone to know.” So I assured her that she could seek academic help without disclosing personal details.
October 29, 2014
High school teachers visited The Scarlet Cord with their students. Later I learned that the installation sparked several classroom discussions.
A student shared that someone said, “You should be healed by now.”
I wondered, Is there a time line of healing for such deep and long-lasting wounds?
October 30, 2014
A seasoned prosecuting attorney wrote, “Very powerful! Visual and audio.”
October 31, 2014
While opening my mail, I was very surprised to find a check from a new donor supporting The Scarlet Cord…
