I have had quite a few people ask me why I am going back to school. The questions have been in a respectful, curious manner. As someone who finished their Bachelor’s Degree 24 years ago, I never, ever had any intention of stepping foot into the world of Academia again, until last fall.

As part of the book group/Bible study I attend on Wednesday nights, we read The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown. Brene is a shame-researcher who has spent her career investigating the affects of shame on us, as well as how we are able to connect to one another through our vulnerabilities. Her words got me thinking about all of the people I have met in my life and what they all seem to have in common.

Trauma, specifically, unresolved trauma.

I am not saying that every person is carrying around a heavy-duty case of PTSD. What I am saying is that a large percentage of us have ‘baggage’ that we have carried with us. That baggage has formed who we are and how we live. It has molded our decision making, our relationships, and our careers.

I know that my kids have it, in spite of my best efforts to protect them. All children of divorce carry those scars. I have whispers of it, although my 8+ years in therapy helped me to heal from most of it. While my trauma may not bother or upset me any longer, it still certainly has a role in how I live and make decisions.

That’s why I am going for my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. I am excited and terrified, but I feel moved to do this. I don’t honestly know if I will end up as a therapist or a writer or a researcher, but I know I need to do this. I need to learn how to better help people cope with their baggage. I need to know how to reach out to any broken people I meet. I am naturally a Helper. I need to do this.

This journey could take upwards of 5 years or more, but the fact is I will be 50 in five years no matter what I do. I would much prefer I be 50 with a clearer understanding of how to help people than to be 50 and stuck.

Any other questions?