Voices Out of Darkness

Voices Out of Darkness was held on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at St. Paul's in Delray Beach. Throughout the day a series of sessions were held to help 20 to 30-somethings deal with very real issues. Organizer Teresa B. Pasquale, who is a founding member off SEEK{ers} Community & Voices describes the event as a day of several opportunities to hear the stories of others. The Reverend Chip Stokes, Rector of St. Paul's welcomed the attendees and a spiritual reading was provided by Rabbi Jenny, a survivor and spiritual coach.  

Presenter Michele Rosenthal

One of the first sessions of the day featured Michele Rosenthal's 'Story of Trauma, PTSD and Healing,' which resonated with those who were in attendance. She spoke of her story, beginning at the age of 13, going through cycles of trauma and crisis for many, many years, finally concluding how she is a survivor today. Toward the end of her presentation Rosenthal asked for the attendees to take away three things: (1) developing hope to live a better life, (2) developing the belief 'I can do it', and (3) having an imagination to set yourself free from who you were and into who you want to be. 

Her book, 'Before the World Intruded: Conquering the Past and Creating the Future' is available via her website. 

Optional activities included guided contemplation and a mindfulness practice during lunch. Throughout the day pieces of a documentary were shown. THE VOICES chronicled the stories of survivors of different types of trauma. Exhibitors were also invited to share their service with attendees and to join in on the discussion. 

Photos from the event were captured!