Survivor Literacy

Breaking the Cycles that Tried to Break Us

patrick mcfall

Recent Posts

  • Glass Ceiling Records – BTS – Relational Anthropology
    Relational Anthropology is an acknowledgment of the interconnectedness inherent in anthropology, which has traditionally explored relationships among people, culture, and environment without naming it. By recognizing this unity, the field can embrace co-creation and emotional literacy, emphasizing anthropology as a practice rooted in relationships rather than mere observation.
  • Busting Myths about Homelessness
    Busting Myths about Homelessness Homelessness is a ChoiceHomelessness is Intersectional There are actually many real social/ structural/ psychological/ medical/ circumstantial… Read more: Busting Myths about Homelessness
  • 11) Dad – Revisited
    The author reflects on their fragmented relationship with their biological father and the subsequent grief of losing their stepfather. Memories reveal a complex family dynamic filled with love, regret, and longing for connection. Despite challenges, the impact of both father figures highlights the desire for understanding and acceptance amid profound loss.
  • Homeless Internment Camps
    Homeless Internment Camps A good friend working with camp hope sent me this. I think we all need to watch… Read more: Homeless Internment Camps
  • 10) *Adult Supervision Required (TW) Part Two – Revisited
    The author describes sexual abuse from their childhood.
  • It’s All Sales – So Special It’s Killing Us
    It’s All Sales – So Special It’s Killing Us Humans Specialized A long time ago, in lands far away and… Read more: It’s All Sales – So Special It’s Killing Us
  • 40) S & M
    The writer reflects on their challenging relationship with their step-grandparent in-laws, who were critical and judgmental, particularly towards the writer’s mother. Observing the dynamics during visits reveals the author’s mother’s struggles with conformity and criticism, highlighting themes of family power, expectation, and toxic behavior, especially during mourning after their father’s death.
  • 39) Runaway Part Two
    The adventure continues, until it all ends.
  • 38) Runaway Part 1
    The author makes a break for it, escaping the control of home, for whatever the world would present.
  • 7) New Scripts – Revisited
    The narrative reflects on a childhood shaped by rigid family dynamics and expectations, particularly towards maternal roles. The author recounts the contrast between their mother’s lively past and the oppressive environment created by their grandmother. Moving to Indiana signifies a turning point, offering glimpses of newfound freedom and self-discovery amid evolving family scripts.
  • UNMANIPULABLE: Repairapy — The Home Game
    Most of us were taught to survive distorted fields by adapting to them.We learned to read the room, shrink ourselves,… Read more: UNMANIPULABLE: Repairapy — The Home Game
  • Intricately woven geometric textile art in blue and gold threads.
    Episkevology is the practice of repair.
    Episkevology is the practice of repair. Not the repair of the individual psyche.Not the correction of “distorted thoughts.”Not the treatment… Read more: Episkevology is the practice of repair.
  • Contrasting dry cracked soil and green crop fields in a rural area with rolling hills
    Not Therapy — Repairapy
    Most of us were taught that “therapy” means something clinical:a diagnosis, a treatment plan, a professional who fixes what’s wrong… Read more: Not Therapy — Repairapy
  • 37) That One Time I Snuck Out
    The author reflects on their high school choir experience, where singing provided comfort and connection. They describe a close friendship with Mr. E, a rebellious peer, sharing dreams and secrets during secret visits. A risky late-night venture ultimately leads to panic and Mr. E’s sudden disappearance, leaving unresolved feelings behind.
  • 67) Perfect Storm
    The author recounts being questioned by the police, and punished by their mother. A plan is hatched to leave town.

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