Chapter 2: Time reveals all wounds

After a while of therapy during one of your sessions as the small talk ends Rachel looks at you and says “We’ve made some interesting progress but you have things blocking you still. I want try something with you if you will allow. It’s called EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing. I want to help you with your lasting stress from your trauma. I have used this technique with many veterans in the past and at the minimum that night they sleep the best they have ever in their life.

“That sounds great doc. Let’s get started then. Is there anything I need to worry about?” you ask smiling at Rachel.

“This won’t be easy, the process is rough on the mind and can put you in a place of unease. I’ll be guiding you thorough it the entire way. There are a few things we must do beforehand. I want you to think about what makes you feel safe. Be it a room, an animal anything. We will use that to form an emotional tether or an anchor for you to use when you feel overwhelmed” Rachel says smiling as she scoots her chair closer.

“Ok, I got something I guess” you say to her after a few moments. In your thinking you are flooded with memories of Roxanne. Remembering her smell, her touch, her smile you look at Rachel offhandedly and notice she is looking at you with a curious gaze. “Did I do something doc?” you ask her

Clearing her throat while covering a blush she shakes you off. “No but I know you were thinking of something. Tell me what it was?”

“I was just thinking of my wife. While you asked me to think of my safety place I felt safe with her. It’s pretty sad when you associate something as important as mental stability with something as fragile as human life. You must think I’m stupid for being so co-dependent. “you respond to her not wanting to meet her gaze.

“I think its amazingly romantic and brave to tie yourself into the person you say you love.” Rachel whispers to herself. “No, I don’t people naturally seek companionship. It’s not a bad idea to connect with someone you love.” She says finally. “So what is your safety anchor? Rachel finishes.

“You might find me awkward doc. I chose a cheetah as my anchor. “you say

“Why a cheetah?” Rachel asks

“I have always love cheetahs to be honest. Last time I was at a zoo I was able to pet a baby cheetah. I find that thought comforting. From that point I wanted a cheetah as a pet, complete with name and everything.” You say sheepishly while rubbing your ring.

“Ok, what was your name for the cheetah if you ever were able to get if you were ever able to get one?” she asks

“Garfield, I always liked the cartoon figure and the cheetah cub at the time reminded me of him and it stuck. “