I’ve been missing from Substack for a few months, but that’s for a good reason.
In the middle of May, I started my training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a type of therapy that specializes in trauma treatment. After attending the basic course, the trainer explained the commitment needed to progress to the next level of EMDR training, which includes attending closed supervision and transcribing therapy sessions for case write-ups.
With that enormous amount of work needed, I immediately knew that I no longer could afford the luxury of writing a weekly dispatch in Reclaiming Peace. With a heavy heart, I stepped away from Substack, unsure how writing a newsletter fit into the larger vision of my future.
A few months have passed since then. Now, I believe I have figured out the sweet spot of balancing the art of pursuing two different forms of vocation—working and writing. I realized these two feed off each other—writing helps me broaden my knowledge and sharpen my thinking, while working helps me put everything I have learned to good use.
I only have a short stint of writing on Substack, but the experience has clarified my vision for the direction of this newsletter. I was particularly drawn to learn about the intersection of trauma and spirituality—a mental health subject that is still in its infancy.
This is how I explained my vocation in my revised About page:
As a psychiatrist, I'm deeply curious about where trauma and spirituality intersect. Through over ten years of clinical work, I've been continually struck by trauma's power to reshape our worldview and alter our capacity to pray, love, and live.
Reclaiming Peace brings together all my insights on this matter. While trauma may disrupt our lives and challenge our beliefs, it can also reveal new pathways to healing and empowerment. I hope that this newsletter becomes a sanctuary where the unspeakable finds voice while staying rooted in faith.
I have even figured out the cadence that would work for my current schedule. Instead of writing every week, I choose to send my work twice per month. I might send more newsletters if time permits, but I’m focusing on delivering more quality writing instead of pushing out ‘content’ without clear, tangible value.
I hope this explanation helps you decide if this newsletter is the right fit for you. This newsletter is still a work in progress—you should only receive work that is worth your time and aligned with your curiosity.
I now have a couple of writings that are waiting to be out to the world. The next installment will be delivered tomorrow, Insha Allah. If you choose to join me on this journey, I would be deeply grateful.
I'm so excited for your new vision! I've been wanting to learn about the connection between trauma and spirituality for a long time, and this will be perfect, In Sha Allah.
Good luck!