Evan Safford: Finding Empathy and Healing After Trauma
I realized that when it comes to the cops, everything you can say will be used against you. When this person lied about me, from my experience, I know that being in the closet and having to hide who I am will make anybody locked out.
Ever wondered how one can find empathy and self-love after a traumatic experience? Evan Safford, a musician from Albuquerque, New Mexico, shares his powerful story in this episode of 'Steps to Sobriety'. Host Stephan Neff dives into Evan's journey from local music success to facing the harsh reality of a hate crime. This act of senseless violence didn't just shake Evan's world; it propelled him to seek help for his mental health and sobriety.
Evan opens up about the challenges of hiding his true self and the anger and resentment that built up as a result. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in the path to recovery, shedding light on how understanding others can help build self-love and self-care. One poignant moment in the conversation is Evan's recounting of his experience with the police after the hate crime.
Instead of finding support, he felt targeted, highlighting the broader issues of police brutality and its impact on marginalized communities. Music plays a significant role in Evan's recovery, serving as a medium for expressing his emotions and connecting with others. His story is not just about overcoming adversity but also about the transformative power of empathy and communication.
Stephan Neff encourages listeners to embrace empathy in their own lives, urging them to 'listen to the song and hear the music' in their daily interactions. This episode is a heartfelt call to action for treating others with respect and understanding, making it a must-listen for anyone on their own journey to sobriety or seeking to support loved ones through similar struggles.