Day One of Filming, By Dawn
Dodee and Dawn
And we’re off…
It was a completely thrilling (and hot) first day of shooting the Recovery Bus. Going in I wasn’t sure exactly how things would play out. God was definitely with us the entire day as every event unfolded.
First, I did pre-interviews with all four family members to hear their sides of the story, and find out where they would each like to experience healing. It was wonderful to see their open hearts, admitted brokenness and desire to get well. Our three uber-hip therapists watched the live feed in a back room (sorta, Randy, Paula and Simon style) and began formulating their plan of “wellness” for our family.
Next, Bryan did an “intensive” (a special form of emotional mat work) with our super cool mom Dodee. She had an amazing break through and although I have personally experienced this form of therapy myself, as it helps one release past traumas, I have never quite seen it unfold like this. Unconventional, yes. Shocking, maybe. Healing, absolutely. After a good three hours, I could literally see a change of awareness in her I’m certain will be life changing in years to come.
The boys Jacob and Caleb were sweet, articulate and willing. Kendra did some fun play therapy with them using sand toys. Her unique “earth mother” style has an amazing way of getting kids to open up and share what they otherwise may not so they can learn at an early age to share and express their feelings in a healthy way.
At the end of the day, Dad Joe went into a session with our Terry whom I affectionately refer to as our “nutcracker,” because we give him our hardest cases to crack. (Nothing personal Joe.) That session was still going on when I left tonight and I can’t wait to get back there in the morning to see how this story unravels. Healing is happening.
The bus has left the station!
Seeing the hope,
Dawn
Posted on August 26, 2011, in Dawn Maxwell, Family, Healing, Recovery. Bookmark the permalink. 1 Comment.
This is so amazing to be a part of this family’s healing. My prayers are with each one of you, and especially for this family as they open up their deepest hurts and needs for everyone to see. So brave! What a great way to learn and to grow as we watch and pray and hope for their future wholeness. Way to go, team!