Fourth of July

I know this came already but it deleted and I’m republishing to get it back on my blog. Apologies. Technology is giving me fits this week.

Yet another holiday is upon us. The celebration of America with the Fourth of July. Although, I believe it has become more about shooting of fireworks than celebrating our freedom. How do you feel about the sounds on the Fourth of July?

I was considering this as I debated whether to write about it. Loud sounds tend to startle me and I have learned it is normal to be started by loud sounds if you’re a trauma survivor. It may be the case for you and it may not. If not, count yourself blessed to not have to deal with them. If they do bother you here are some ways to make it through the upcoming holiday.

Invest in some ear plugs. When the fireworks start, as they will, put them in and then do one of the following. Add earphones with good music, read a book, or watch TV with the captions on. Anything else you come up with will do too, so try what works!

When the really loud ones start in the evening add noise cancelling headphones to your ear plugs. This will block out even the mortar type loud boom fireworks. I usually wear them to sleep for the three to four days people feel the need to shoot them off at night. When I wake up after 1:00am and they are stopped I take them off because they aren’t very comfortable to wear. If you want a pair check places like Best Buy or Amazon. They run about $15.00.

Keep in mind as you are dealing with the loud sounds that they will eventually stop and that you are truly safe inside your home. There is no imminent danger as the sounds tend to make us feel like there is. God will be there with you and is there to listen if you are struggling to make it through. Talk to him and share your fears and struggles. I pray you make it through another difficult holiday and continue to heal in recovery.

© 2020 Susan M. Clabaugh. All Rights Reserved.