Life in the Trenches

A reframe

Sometimes, to victims learning how to survive, it feels like life is stuck “in the trenches.”

We use the idiom when we’re feeling beaten down, challenged, heartbroken, threatened, damaged. When we’ve forgotten our hope.

Merriam-Webster defines the phrase as “a place or situation in which people do very difficult work.”

So true. But what is a trench, really. Literally.

Aren’t trenches built for protection?

To provide shelter against the enemy as one rests?

As one gathers strength?

Strategizes?

Until the threat passes?

Until it’s safe to climb out and claim victor status?

Maybe we should start reframing the notion. Consider that the trenches exist for our own protection and well-being, as we shore up for the future.

For life after abuse, beyond the war it manifests within us.

May we should remember that trenches work to our advantage.