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Newspaper Archive of
Shelton Mason County Journal
Shelton, Washington
January 21, 2020     Shelton Mason County Journal
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January 21, 2020
 
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Page A—1 6 — Shelton-Mason County Journal — Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021 Shelton author shares story of trauma, addiction Bylsabeila Breda isabe//a@masoncounty com The path to healing is almost never a straight one. “I mean it’s really cliche, but like the tap- estry on the wall —— there’s a pretty picture on the front and in the back it’s a bunch of tangled-up threads that doesn’t really make sense,” Shelton author Rachel Baldwin said. “We’re all like that. And if we can step away from micromanaging it and actually see the big picture, it brings healing and freedom.” Baldwin’s memoir “Against Such Things” was the N0. 1 new release in the Substance Abuse book category on ‘ Amazon within days of its launch in fall 2020. The heart-wrenching page—turner takes the reader through Baldwin’s traumatic childhood, showcasing the allure of belong— ing, the darkest depths of addiction, in- carceration and finally reaching recovery through a commitment to authenticity. This is Baldwin’s first book, though she said she’s wanted to write even “before I had things to write about.” While the book addresses Baldwin’s path to freedom, authenticity and healing, she said writing the book helped her turn the page and enter the next chapter of her life. “While writing, I definitely identified some more patterns that I really haven’t seen and wouldn’t have seen if I hadn’t written it all down,” Baldwin said. “And that’s where healing Comes is when you can identify why it is you’re behaving in what- ever way you’re reacting to something that isn’t healed the whole process was another level of healing for me, that I don’t think I would have gotten otherwise.” Within the book are separate threads, bits of Baldwin’s experiences that are all in- tertwined and which touch on traumas that include childhood abuse, sexual assault, the ebbs and flows of addiction and strained relationships. “I’m hopeful that it’s written in a way that whatever someone’s experience is, maybe they might find something to identi- fy with,” Baldwin said. “It’s vulnerable but I don’t think it would have mattered to write it if it wasn’t telling the truth about what adverse childhood experiences do to some- one and what that creates for our society . as a whole.” Baldwin’s story is familiar to those who carry trauma. Her internal conflicts resulted in seeking outside affirmation, belonging and things, Baldwin said. “So maybe that’s the take- away, like it isn’t anything outside of our- selves — as individuals or as a society — that’s going to make anything different.” Healing has to come from Within. Baldwin’s writing humanizes the faces and names behind those who society is of- ten quick to judge. “No matter where you’re at, no matter what you’re doing, no matter how scary it is, if you are unhoused and strung out, and aren’t sure if that tree is actually talking to you and haven’t seen your kids in six years, you still deserve love and respect,” Baldwin said. “I’m here to tell you, anybody who tells you different, they’re the ones who are the problem.” Baldwin said she hopes her book can con» tribute to understanding and awareness. “When we segregate us versus them — and whatever iteration of us versus them we’re talking about it causes not just in- ternal dysfunction but like systematic, cul- tural dysfunction,” she said. “It’s realizing that it’s OK to be. Period. The end. It’s OK for you to be who you are, you don’t have to be in alignment with my morals and values, but you do have to respect them.” Baldwin’s book is available at all major book sellers, including Amazon, Barnes &' Noble and Powell’s Books. “sewage-2481‘ i . Anup'fora chance A RACHEL all: sign Unfora‘newnexw, package or upgrade your existing package fer a ’ chance to win a Samsung High Definition TV! Win this 32” Samsung HDTV New HCC customers can enjoy any nexTV package for $15 off for your first six months. car today for more info or to sign up! Some restrictions. appw. HCC, intranet package inquired tor nexiv. Learn more at rm: not or (all swaa‘aaam Meet Maverick! He is a 112#, 5-year- old Siberian Husky. This snowy, handsome blue-eyed fellow is looking for a home to enjoy beautiful days basking in the sun, romping in yard, and going on an occasionalswim. ' Maverick is a chill dog who needs some encouragement to keep pursuing his fitness goals. He is on special diet and dail exercise to achieve his goal weight of 70/ 5. He is a great family and companion deg who has lived successfully with ‘chid ren and one medium-sized male dog. He is good natured, loving, and smart. MEMOIR r. BALDWlN' Further questions? Currently emails are the only method .of communication. We all-care about the health of our 2-Iegged caregivers and the community at large, so as a precaution we are suspending our -‘ public open hours. We are still taking email inquiries, on-line applications and will be in touch with you as soon as we { are able. We appreciate everyone’s understanding during this time! Stay' Well! ‘ CONTACT INFORMATION: . Email: thedoghouse3091@hotmail.com Telephone: (360) 432-3091 Furrg Friar/vols Looking for or .Home” ’ Sponsored by: A Because they're part of your ram: .. you want HAIGH VETERINARY HOSPITAL ‘ _ 81 SE. Walker Park Rd. 0 Shelton (360) 426-1 840