I hope it will not be trivialising to say that there are stories here
which could help to transform our understanding not only of the
conflict going on there, and conflicts everywhere, but also deepen
our and others' understanding of therapeutic community and the people
who commit themselves to living and working with one another in this
way. In the hands of a playwright, it could become a transforming
play. What you are describing, Anthony - communities working with
chaos and reconstruction, thrown into the midst of destruction and
disintegration, and responding with creativity and commitment to
retain and carry on the work - is inspiring just in the indications
you have given that it is going on. If there ever were a possibility
for the people involved to share some of the many small and big
stories they're living and having to live, it would be a powerful
tool; I want to say 'for understanding', but I think the impact would
be even greater than that.
best,
Craig
At 10:12 25/07/2006, you wrote:
>Dear all,
>
>We must all be aware of the current situation taking place in the
>region; we would like you all to know that so far the communities in
>Israel are safe. Due to the constant bombing in the North of the
>country, community members from a northern T.C have been provided
>with shelter and safety, by Ilanot T.C community. Some 40 community
>members and staff from the north have for the last two weeks or so
>continued "in the struggle" at Ilanot T.C, the Director, Eitan Sela
>has made space at his home for some of the staff members.
>
>We all are aware of tensions which can emerge during treatment for
>addictions; I must say that I have no understanding of what it must
>be like to attempt to continue to remain in treatment, or to provide
>therapeutic community treatment, in these conditions.
>
>It has been my privilege to visit most of the communities throughout
>the country, meeting dedicated people who simply work together,
>overcoming differences, finding similarities, in the search for
>recovery and a better life.
>
>On behalf of the EFTC, the Phoenix Haga community, and myself, I
>would like to send this message of "long distance" support, and hope
>that you all, your families and friends stay safe.
>
>Anthony Slater,
Dr. Craig Fees
Planned Environment Therapy Trust Archive and Study Centre
Church Lane
Toddington
near Cheltenham
Glos. GL54 5DQ
United Kingdom
Phone/fax 01242 620125
Email: [log in to unmask]
http://www.pettarchiv.org.uk
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