“Sticks and stones” was never the whole truth. In this Author of the Month reflection, Joshua Bennett-Johnson looks back on childhood bullying from both sides: the child who used cruelty to feel bigger, and the child who later felt the sting of public humiliation. The result is a candid, human essay about shame, empathy, repair, and why words can leave wounds long after the moment passes.

Heather Proctor explains why trauma-informed care starts with asking “What happened to you?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” She highlights the principles of safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and avoiding re-traumatization.

Growing up with a mentally ill parent often requires children to adapt, stay quiet, and survive emotionally. This personal essay explores trauma, longing, and the slow process of healing.

An unfiltered exploration of generational trauma, showing how pain, secrecy, and survival patterns are passed down quietly through families.