so stuck and powerless? What had taken place in that conversation between Peta and Philip, my teddy
bear? When I asked her, tears flowed down her cheeks. She said, “I realized that I cared for him more
than I cared for myself.”
210 Healing Stories, Teaching Stories
EXERCISE 12.1
Life presents us all with challenges at times, and children, unfortunately, are not exempt. In this
context, the old adage that prevention is better than cure is indeed relevant. Look at building
your own story ideas as to how a child may handle a challenging time, not only in the present,
but also in preparation for the possibility of such challenges in the future. Follow the thera-
peutic characteristics:
■ Describe a problem with which the child might identify.
■ Explore the resources needed to cope with current or future challenging times.
■ Reach a resolution that is realistic and pragmatic.