114 Ending the story
TO THE TRAINER
PART II: THE TRAINING
Ending the story
Aim. To end the story in a good way.
It is important to talk together about how the story is brought to an end. Create the ending together with the group and write it down. Invite the participants to make different suggestions but also try to reach a consensus in the group about the direction the story should take. In particular keep focusing on how the Butterfly Woman will move back to her home community or, alternatively, how she will live her life if going back is not possible. Do this through discussion. Encourage the participants to consider different options, and explore obstacles and possibilities.
Focus on how one can ensure that a returning survivor enjoys continued support, to help her and those around her to deal with situations in which she may be triggered and feel overwhelmed again. A survivor needs to feel safe and connected to the here and now.
KEY POINT
The story reminds survivors that
• When they find themselves in situations that might trigger their trauma reactions, they should be prepared to use the tools they have learned.
• They will find it easier to do so if there is someone they trust to help them.
• They should try to reorient themselves to make new good memories.
Make sure the participants engage actively in planning the return scenario and identify different challenges and possibilities that may be involved in the process.
EXERCISE
Exercise 8. Ending the story.
For the story to be healing, it needs to end with some kind of hope. Try to identify all the possible resources that are available in the community. Then sum up the rest of the story.