Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational trauma, is a concept that explains how the effects of trauma can pass down through generations. It's a testament to the resilience and strength of those who, despite bearing the burdens of the past, strive for a brighter future.

Exploring the origins of generational trauma involves looking back at historical events that have left a lasting impact on communities. From war and displacement to systemic oppression, the psychological scars can transcend the immediate victims and affect their descendants.

Through the lens of real-life stories, we can delve into the personal experiences of individuals grappling with the legacy of their ancestors' hardships. These narratives not only highlight the struggles but also the profound courage displayed by those who confront their inherited pain from  Holocaust Survivors to American Indian Boarding/Residential Schools Survivors.

Recent research in epigenetics and psychology provides insight into how traumatic experiences alter gene expression and can be transmitted to offspring. This scientific perspective offers a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that perpetuate generational trauma.

Despite the challenges, many find paths to healing and transformation. Therapeutic approaches, community support, and personal resilience play crucial roles in breaking the cycle of trauma and paving the way for generational healing.

The journey towards overcoming generational trauma is not only about healing oneself but also about inspiring change within families and communities. It's a powerful narrative of hope and the capacity for renewal that lies within each person.

In the face of generational trauma, we witness the indomitable human spirit that refuses to be defined by the past. This blog post serves as a tribute to those who have turned their generational wounds into wisdom and strength, inspiring all of us to believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow.

​So excited and ecstatic to announce  my book Stolen Voices has won 3 Independent Author Literary Awards from Literary Global.  1 Winner and 2 Finalist Awards. I won the General Non-Fiction category and placed Finalist in the categories of Short Stories and True Crime.   This is truly exciting.  I'm over the moon thrilled to have earned these accolades.  

From the Independent Author Awards on May 19, 2024:

Dear Esteemed Authors, Publishers, Judges, Media Members, and Supporters,
LITERARYGLOBAL.COM is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 Independent Author Awards!
The inaugural contest surpassed all our expectations, with hundreds of high-quality entries from around the world. Each submission highlighted the creativity, diversity, and imagination of its wonderful author. We understand the challenge of gaining recognition in this field and placing your fate in a judge's hands. Your dedication, hard work, and creative talent are truly inspiring. We commend all the nominees for taking this risk and pursuing passion and recognition. Your achievements are a testament to the power of independent voices in the literary world. We look forward to seeing your continued success and the impact your work will have on readers everywhere.
We would also like to take this time to thank our exceptional panel of judges for their dedicated efforts and to all the participants for sharing their wonderful stories. Judging the countless number of entries was an arduous task, as each piece brought something unique and compelling. Our judges committed countless hours to carefully reading and evaluating every submission, a testament to their dedication and passion for literature and the integrity of this contest.
Every nominee, regardless of the outcome, has made a meaningful impact. We value each contribution and applaud your dedication to the craft.
LiteraryGlobal.com is your destination for celebrating authors and publishers worldwide. We are dedicated to offering unparalleled opportunities for recognition and pride. Our contests and services stand out for their affordability and inclusivity, making them accessible to everyone.
Congratulations once again to all the remarkable authors and publishers!
Sincerely,
LIT GLOBAL

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, or Lady Aurora have long captivated the human imagination, weaving a tapestry of myths, legends, and superstitions in cultures around the world. The celestial phenomenon reached a new peak in the unforgettable display on the nights of May 10 and 11, 2024, where the skies above northern Ontario and beyond were painted with vibrant strokes of color. This blog post will explore the timeless tales associated with the Northern Lights and recount the majestic light show that graced our skies in May 2024.

For centuries, the Northern Lights have been the subject of awe and wonder. In Norse mythology, they were seen as the Bifröst Bridge, a glowing arch leading fallen warriors to their final resting place in Valhalla. The Sami people believed the lights were the energies of the souls of the departed. Across the Atlantic, the Algonquin tribes thought the lights were their ancestors dancing in the sky.

In Finnish folklore, the Northern Lights were created by a fox sweeping its tail across the snow, sending sparks up into the sky. This whimsical tale reflects the playful nature of the aurora and the enchantment it brings to the winter nights. In Scottish lore, the lights were known as "the merry dancers," believed to be the spirits of the deceased engaging in nocturnal revelry.

Superstitions have also played a role in Northern Lights folklore. Some cultures warned against whistling at the lights, fearing it would summon spirits to take the whistler away. Others believed that the lights were a favorable omen, signifying good fortune or a bountiful harvest.

In some regions, pregnant women were encouraged to look at the Northern Lights, as it was thought to ensure an easy delivery. On the flip side, it was also believed in certain cultures that making fun of the aurora could bring about misfortune or even curse a child to be born cross-eyed.

The display on May 10 and 11, 2024, was a sight to behold. I sat at a semi popular dark sky area closest to me (an hour away) to see this event for the first time in my life.  I stayed out and watched Lady Aurora dance in the sky from sun down to sun up.  She danced her most dazzling dance the entire time.  Within the overhead spectacle I saw many different shapes; an angel, an eagle, the phoenix, a dove, a turtle, a horse, a butterfly, and a kitty angel.  All the colors of the aurora were visible to my naked eye, but they really are vibrant in my photos.  The whole evening was incredible, especially for a first time experience.  I think my favorite part was standing alone in the parking lot of the park with the aurora surrounding in all directions.  A full 360 view with the lights surrounding me  with all the colors being different in each direction, exploding together as they met at the top of the sky.  It was truly magical. 

They were the most powerful geomagnetic storm in two decades, the aurora borealis could be seen as far south as Arizona, Alabama, and Georgia. In northern Ontario, viewers were treated to a breathtaking exhibition of light that danced across the night sky, a natural marvel that united stargazers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Amateur astronomers and professional astrophysicists alike gathered in droves, setting up telescopes and cameras to capture the event. Social media was abuzz with live streams and time-lapse videos, allowing even those far removed from the high latitudes to partake in the wonder.

Photographs from the event show the Northern Lights in all their glory, with vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink stretching across the horizon. The lights illuminated landmarks such as St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay, England, offering a backdrop that seemed almost otherworldly.

Photography contests sprang up in the aftermath, celebrating the most stunning captures of the aurora. These images serve not only as a testament to the beauty of the Northern Lights but also as a source of inspiration for artists and creatives around the globe.

While the myths and legends add a layer of mystique to the Northern Lights, the science behind them is equally fascinating. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun interact with Earth's magnetosphere, resulting in the dazzling light show we observe. The event of May 2024 was particularly remarkable due to the intensity of the solar activity.

Recent advancements in space weather forecasting have allowed scientists to predict auroral displays with greater accuracy, providing the public with the opportunity to witness these celestial dances more frequently. Educational programs have also been developed to teach about the interplay between the sun's activity and our planet's magnetic field.

For those inspired to witness the Northern Lights in person, planning is key, although tricky with how unpredictable they are.  Patience and perseverance are essential.  Along with a willingness for lack of sleep.  The best viewing times are typically during the winter months in high-latitude regions such as Scandinavia, Canada, and Alaska. While the event of May 2024 was a rare treat, the aurora borealis continues to be a bucket-list experience for many.

Travel agencies specializing in aurora tourism offer guided tours that include educational talks, photography workshops, and even accommodations in glass igloos or cozy cabins where visitors can gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds.

Interestingly, the Northern Lights have found their way into true crime literature and media, often setting the stage for chilling narratives that play out under the ethereal glow of the aurora. The juxtaposition of the Northern Lights' beauty with the dark themes of true crime creates a unique and compelling backdrop for storytelling.
The stark contrast between the serene display of the Northern Lights and the tumultuous nature of criminal investigation adds a layer of depth to the genre. It's not uncommon for detectives in fiction to ponder the mysteries of the cosmos while unraveling the mysteries on the ground.

For the avid stargazer, catching the Northern Lights requires patience and preparation. A clear, dark sky away from city lights is essential, as is monitoring solar activity forecasts. Photography enthusiasts should also come equipped with a tripod and a camera capable of long exposures to capture the lights in all their splendor.

Apps and websites dedicated to aurora forecasting can be invaluable tools for the modern-day aurora chaser. These resources provide real-time updates on geomagnetic activity, cloud cover, and the best times for observation.  I use 5 separate apps to track and chase Lady Aurora.

The Northern Lights continue to inspire and intrigue, from ancient myths to modern-day light shows. The event of May 2024 will be remembered as one of the most spectacular displays of the aurora borealis in recent history, a testament to the enduring wonder of this natural phenomenon. Whether you're a true crime aficionado or a stargazing enthusiast, the Northern Lights offer an experience that is truly out of this world.
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As we continue to gaze upwards and seek out the stories written in the stars, the Northern Lights stand as a reminder of our eternal quest for understanding and our connection to the vast universe that surrounds us.  Here are a few of my favorite photographs from my evening with Lady Aurora. 

In the heart of the true crime genre lies not only the intrigue of mystery but also the profound pursuit of justice. Red Dress Day is a solemn reminder of the countless Indigenous women who have vanished or been unjustly taken from their communities. It is a day that calls upon us to wear red, to stand in solidarity, and to raise our voices against the silence that often shrouds these tragic tales.
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The Origin of Red Dress DayRed Dress Day, observed on May 5th, originated from the Red Dress Project initiated by Métis artist Jaime Black in 2010. The project, a poignant and impactful narrative, uses the visual symbol of red dresses to represent the Indigenous women who are no longer with us. These dresses, often hung in public spaces, serve as a haunting reminder of the void left behind and the need for awareness and advocacy.

Each red dress tells a story, a narrative that weaves together the threads of loss, hope, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The day honours not only the women and girls but also two-spirit peoples who have been subjected to disproportionate violence. It is a day of heartfelt exploration into the community's struggles and losses, aiming to ignite a flame of change within each of us.
The Power of Community and StorytellingStolen Voices: Missing and Murdered in Big Horn County is more than just a title; it's a testament to the power of community and storytelling. As we delve into the true crime non-fiction narratives, we find ourselves intertwined with the indigenous communities' quest for justice and truth. The stories recounted are not only compelling but also serve as a catalyst for societal transformation.

On Red Dress Day, we are all invited to be part of something larger than ourselves. By donning a red dress or simply a red accessory, we become advocates for those who can no longer speak for themselves. We become part of a narrative that seeks to bring these issues to the forefront, to challenge the status quo, and to demand action.

As true crime enthusiasts, we are no strangers to the complexities of justice. Red Dress Day presents an opportunity to channel our passion for the genre into meaningful advocacy. Order your copy of the award-winning book, Stolen Voices by Bonnie Bley, today to immerse yourself in an intense journey through the heart of Indian Country, where the pursuit of justice for the missing and murdered indigenous women continues.

Murder may seem easy, getting away with it even easier, particularly in Indian Country. However, through our collective efforts on days like Red Dress Day, we bring these stories into the light, ensuring that the voices of the missing and murdered are never silenced.

As we reflect on the stories of those who have been taken too soon, let us find inspiration in their memories to advocate for change. Let us transform our fascination with true crime into a force for good, ensuring that the narrative of every missing and murdered Indigenous woman is heard loud and clear. It is through awareness, justice, and community that we can make an impactful difference.