PDF Summary:Crazy Brave, by Joy Harjo

In Crazy Brave, Joy Harjo recounts her journey of perseverance through trauma, abuse, and personal struggles to find purpose and ignite her artistic spirit. Born to a Creek and Cherokee heritage, Harjo's early life was shaped by her parents' volatile relationship and her stepfather's cruelty. Yet she found solace in creative expression, education, and community involvement.

The memoir intimately details Harjo's grappling with panic attacks, depression, and suicidal thoughts as she navigated motherhood, relationships, and her search for identity. Harjo ultimately discovers resilience through her art, drawing strength from activism and her indigenous roots to heal from past wounds and find her voice as a celebrated poet.

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• Create a worry journal to track anxiety triggers and their impact on daily activities. By noting down when you feel anxious and what you're doing at the time, you can start to see patterns and identify specific triggers. For example, if you notice that your anxiety spikes before group interactions, you might prepare by practicing relaxation techniques beforehand.
• Create a 'safe space' blueprint by mapping out areas in your home where you feel most at ease. Sketch your home layout and mark the spots where you feel relaxed. Focus on enhancing these areas with comforting elements like plants, pictures, or personal mementos. Use this blueprint to reorganize your home, prioritizing these areas for activities like reading or meditation.
• Engage in self-defense classes to build physical confidence and capability. Look for local classes that focus on practical, easy-to-learn techniques designed for people without prior experience. Learning these skills can empower you to feel less like prey and more in control of your personal safety.
• Create a safety plan that includes a list of safe places you can go to at a moment's notice. This plan should be memorized or kept in a secure location and include contact information for local shelters, friends' houses, or family members who are aware of the situation and can provide a safe haven if needed.
• Practice assertiveness through role-playing exercises with a trusted friend or family member. Take turns acting out scenarios where you need to assert your boundaries or express how someone's dominance affects you. This can help you build the confidence to address such issues in real life and reclaim your spirit and energy.
• Create a support group with friends who share similar interests to exchange experiences and encourage each other to pursue passions that have waned.
• Establish a family tradition that focuses on personal development, such as a monthly "skill-share" dinner where each family member teaches the others something new they've learned. This could range from a new math trick to a craft or a life lesson. It encourages sharing knowledge and skills, fostering a supportive environment for growth.
• Engage in self-reflection exercises to understand your own boundaries and relationship expectations. Write down what you consider to be non-negotiable in a relationship and what signs would indicate to you that a relationship is becoming unhealthy. This can help you establish a clear set of personal guidelines for what you will and won't accept in your relationships.
• Practice expressing gratitude to combat feelings of jealousy. Each evening, write down three things you are grateful for about someone else's success or happiness. This can help shift your focus from what you feel you lack to appreciating the abundance in others' lives, which can, in turn, reduce feelings of jealousy.
• Create a personal code of conduct that outlines how you wish to interact with others, focusing on respect, equality, and non-violence. Refer to this code daily and in situations where you feel challenged or provoked. This can serve as a reminder of the person you aspire to be and help guide your actions in a positive direction.
• Volunteer your time with local shelters or hotlines to directly assist those affected by abuse. While you don't need specialized skills to volunteer, you will receive training to handle sensitive situations appropriately. This hands-on involvement can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals seeking to leave abusive environments, and you'll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.

The author's personal struggles included panic attacks, depression, and suicidal thoughts

In addition to the trauma of abuse, Harjo grappled with inner demons that manifested as debilitating panic attacks, depression, and suicidal thoughts. These challenges underscore the enduring mental effects of traumatic experiences and the significance of pursuing assistance and discovering methods for recovery.

The author suffered from severe panic attacks that hindered her ability to operate effectively.

While studying and raising her children, Harjo experienced severe panic attacks that overwhelmed her with profound dread and a feeling that catastrophe was looming. Seemingly triggered by the stress of navigating daily life, these attacks often left her paralyzed, unable to move or even breathe properly. The author vividly communicates the physical manifestations of intense anxiety, likening it to an invisible force that engulfs her, with her body responding to deep-seated historical wounds. These experiences highlight the complex relationship between mental and physical health, demonstrating how anxiety can manifest in debilitating physical symptoms.

Harjo recounts a terrifying incident where a panic attack seized her while crossing a busy street. Paralyzed by fear as cars rushed past, she was engulfed by the terror of a potential end. This experience emphasizes the debilitating nature of anxiety, its ability to render a person helpless even in seemingly mundane situations. The author’s willingness to share these deeply personal struggles helps to destigmatize mental health issues and normalize the experience of anxiety and panic, particularly within Native American communities that often lack access to adequate mental health care and face cultural barriers to seeking help.

Context

• The dual responsibilities of studying and parenting can be particularly stressful, as they require significant time management and emotional energy, potentially intensifying anxiety.
• The feeling of dread and impending catastrophe is a common symptom of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent panic attacks.
• Navigating cultural expectations and responsibilities, especially in a community context, can add layers of stress to daily life.
• The experience of being paralyzed during a panic attack is often due to the body's fight-or-flight response, which can cause muscles to tense up and lead to a feeling of immobility.
• The description underscores the challenge of articulating mental health experiences, as they often lack visible symptoms, making them harder for others to understand.
• Despite historical wounds, many Indigenous communities emphasize resilience and strength, which can play a role in how individuals cope with anxiety and its physical manifestations.
• The unpredictability of panic attacks can make everyday activities, like crossing a street, particularly challenging and dangerous, as they can occur without warning.
• Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions worldwide. They can cause intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations, often leading to physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, and trembling.
• When public figures or authors share their struggles, it can inspire others to seek help or share their own experiences, creating a ripple effect that promotes mental health awareness.
• Complex bureaucratic processes and policy barriers can hinder the effective delivery of mental health services to Native American communities.

The author contemplated suicide as a means of escaping her difficult circumstances

Overwhelmed by the cumulative weight of abuse, poverty, and now debilitating panic attacks, Harjo reached a point of despair where she considered suicide as a means of escape. She remembers contemplating whether her pain might end by crossing paths with a swiftly traveling car. This dark period emphasizes the immense emotional toll of her experiences and the sense of hopelessness that can accompany trauma and mental illness. The author's candidness about her suicidal ideation serves as a potent prompt to pursue assistance and solidarity when facing a crisis.

Joy Harjo's inherent strength and profound connection to the spiritual world ultimately guided her path to healing. She describes a dream where she confronts a terrifying monster, symbolizing the fear that had been tormenting her, and finds the strength to fly above it, realizing she is no longer bound by its power. This vision marks a crucial point where she takes charge of her life's direction and progresses in her recovery. Harjo's narrative demonstrates how dreams can be a potent catalyst for change, revealing that profound despair can give rise to growth and healing.

Context

• Cars can symbolize both freedom and danger. In literature, they often represent a means of escape or a force of destruction, reflecting Harjo's internal conflict between wanting to escape her pain and the potential for self-harm.
• Immediate support, such as hotlines and crisis centers, can provide critical assistance to those experiencing suicidal ideation, offering a lifeline during moments of acute distress.
• Community and familial support can play a significant role in recovery, providing a network of care and understanding for those in distress.
• Practices such as mindfulness and meditation, which are often part of spiritual traditions, can help individuals manage stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of peace and clarity.
• Flying in dreams is frequently interpreted as a symbol of liberation and empowerment. It can indicate a sense of overcoming obstacles or gaining a new perspective on life challenges.
• The act of confronting and overcoming a symbolic monster in a dream can represent the empowerment that comes from facing one's fears. This can translate into real-life confidence and the ability to take control of one's circumstances.
• In therapeutic settings, dream analysis can be used to uncover underlying issues and promote healing, making them a tool for personal development and overcoming adversity.

Education, community, and artistic development

This section delves into the crucial influence that education and community had in steering Harjo's path toward self-discovery and the evolution of her artistic identity. She embarked on a journey of recovery from previous wounds and came to appreciate her distinctive abilities by engaging with a setting that fostered support and was favorable to creative expression.

The writer experienced a significant change while attending the Institute of American Indian Arts.

Harjo portrays IAIA as a sanctuary, where she ultimately experienced a feeling of inclusion and acceptance. The institution served not only as a center for scholarly endeavors but also as a supportive environment where like-minded individuals could come together in their passion for creative expression.

The IAIA provided the author with a supportive atmosphere where she was among other Indigenous individuals also engaged in creative pursuits.

Her experience at the institution focused on Indigenous American arts was transformative. She departed from the stifling environment of her stepfather's residence and became part of a group of Native American students who shared her enthusiasm for the arts and understood the difficulties she faced. The atmosphere at the school fostered unity and acceptance, which supported Harjo's recovery from past traumas and helped her embrace her identity as a Native American artist. The author underscores the significance of locating a nurturing network, a setting in which individuals can bond with peers that affirm their life stories and foster their development.

Harjo found solace in the universal language of art, which enabled her to establish connections with students from diverse indigenous backgrounds. Despite the obstacles posed by longstanding hostilities and cultural disparities, they discovered a mutual connection through their collective histories of colonization and a unified aspiration to recover their ancestral legacy. The institution, once mandated for cultural assimilation, had transformed into a haven that honored and fostered the creative expression and customs of Indigenous peoples. Harjo flourished in this setting, delving into a variety of art forms within her studio courses, and cultivating her distinct creative expression.

Practical Tips

• Enroll in a community art class that rotates through different mediums every few weeks. This approach allows you to dip your toes into various art forms without the commitment of a long-term course. It's a social and structured way to discover which medium resonates with you and helps in developing your unique style.

Other Perspectives

• The focus on Indigenous American arts could be seen as limiting if it does not incorporate a broader perspective that includes the influence and interaction with other art forms and cultures, potentially restricting the scope of transformation.
• The concept of unity and acceptance within the school might have occasionally faced challenges, as any group setting can have moments of conflict or misunderstanding, which could impact the experiences of some individuals.
• Affirmation from peers is helpful, but excessive reliance on external validation can hinder the development of self-sufficiency and critical self-reflection.
• The concept of art as a universal language might overlook the potential for misinterpretation or miscommunication that can arise when cultural symbols or motifs are used outside of their original context.
• The concept of a unified aspiration can sometimes overlook the complexity and diversity of individual goals and desires among students from different indigenous backgrounds.
• The change in the institution's mandate might not fully address the systemic issues that contribute to the marginalization of Indigenous peoples outside the institution's environment.

The author flourished as she delved into her artistic abilities.

Harjo received mentorship from prominent Native American artists at IAIA, who inspired her to challenge conventional limits and delve into innovative modes of expression. She drew resilience from performing in theatrical productions that challenged stereotypes and emphasized the perspectives of Indigenous Americans through the craft of storytelling. The author underscores the significance of mentors and role models in guiding and inspiring up-and-coming artists to hone their skills and establish a unique position within the broader artistic community.

However, the IAIA embodied a tapestry of intricate feelings and persistent challenges. Harjo witnessed her classmates grapple with the traumas of colonization, poverty, and personal loss. The prevalence of substance abuse, self-harm, and emotional distress reflected the intergenerational trauma that plagued many Native communities. While recognizing these difficulties, the author also emphasizes the steadfast resolve of her companions to forge significance and splendor even when faced with challenges. The author's work consistently seeks balance and healing amidst a reality that encompasses both magnificence and hardship, fundamentally marked by the contrast between the joy derived from artistic creation and the sorrow of individual and collective past suffering.

Context

• Mentorship in artistic fields often involves guidance in both technical skills and cultural expression, helping artists to develop a voice that is both personal and reflective of their heritage.
• The broader artistic community at IAIA would have been a diverse and dynamic environment, encouraging experimentation and the blending of different artistic disciplines.
• Colonization disrupted traditional ways of life and storytelling for many Indigenous communities. Theater can serve as a form of resistance and reclamation, allowing Indigenous people to assert their cultural identity and resist assimilation.
• Mentors often model resilience and perseverance, demonstrating how to overcome obstacles and continue creating despite challenges.
• This concept involves the transmission of historical oppression and its negative consequences across generations. It can manifest in various forms, including mental health issues and socioeconomic challenges.
• Loss of language, traditions, and cultural practices due to assimilation policies has led to identity crises and emotional distress among Native individuals.
• Harjo's use of music, particularly the saxophone, in her performances and recordings is a form of artistic expression that embodies healing and emotional release, bridging the gap between spoken word and sound.
• The contrast highlights the role of art in strengthening community bonds and personal identity, offering a sense of belonging and purpose.

The writer's worldview was influenced by her active participation in the movement for indigenous rights.

While at IAIA, Harjo lived through a period characterized by significant social and political activism nationwide. Harjo, driven by the growing awareness of Native American issues, embraced the role of an advocate for her community, utilizing her creative abilities to advance the pursuit of justice and equality.

The writer dedicated her efforts to advocating on behalf of her community's well-being through social and political activism.

While at IAIA, she cultivated a profound commitment to social responsibility, driving her to engage vigorously in advocating for Indigenous peoples' rights. She joined a university group known for addressing Native American student concerns, the Kiva Club, and participated in numerous protests and demonstrations to bring attention to the challenges faced by Native Americans. The writer emphasizes the importance of fighting for fairness and using one's own articulation to drive change, even when faced with opposition.

Harjo experienced a profound affinity with the efforts of a group dedicated to amplifying the perspectives of Indigenous youth and advocating for their autonomy. The author saw in NIYC a reflection of her own desire to dismantle oppressive structures and create a more hopeful future for her community. Her engagement in activism fostered connections and established enduring relationships with indigenous leaders, which provided support throughout her life and professional journey.

Practical Tips

• Donate to scholarship funds dedicated to Native American students. Research and identify organizations that provide financial assistance to Native American students pursuing higher education. Contributing financially can help alleviate the economic barriers that often hinder students from underrepresented communities from accessing higher education.

Other Perspectives

• There is a risk that the visibility of protests and demonstrations can overshadow the quieter, yet equally important, work being done by other members of the community in different capacities.
• Emphasizing articulation in the face of opposition could imply a one-sided approach to activism; it's important to also consider the value of listening and engaging in constructive conversations with those who hold opposing views.
• While amplifying perspectives is crucial, it may not be sufficient without a strategic plan for how to translate those perspectives into actionable change within the political system.
• Efforts to create change can sometimes inadvertently overlook or alienate subgroups within the community, leading to new tensions or reinforcing existing ones.
• While activism can lead to strong relationships with leaders, it does not guarantee enduring support, as alliances can shift due to changing political landscapes or divergent priorities.

The author's activism and community involvement helped her find purpose and direction

Harjo discovered that her involvement in social and political activism not only fulfilled an obligation but also invigorated and motivated her. It offered her a platform through which she could express her passion for justice and utilize her creativity to amplify the visibility of frequently marginalized communities. The author emphasizes the interconnectedness of individual and collective struggles, illustrating that art can profoundly drive social change while activism can fuel artistic innovation.

Joy Harjo's engagement in activism enhanced her awareness of the ingrained inequalities encountered by Native Americans. She personally observed the profound effects that poverty, discrimination, and historical wounds inflicted upon her communities. The author's experiences profoundly influenced her poetry and deepened her resolve to confront power structures through her artistry, all the while paying tribute to the endurance of Native communities and advocating for their renewal and balance. Her work is characterized by a dedication to social justice, intertwining individual stories with broader topics such as the resilience of indigenous peoples, cultural endurance, and their fight for self-determination.

Context

• Participating in collective action can empower individuals by connecting them with like-minded people, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared mission.
• Marginalized communities often lack representation in mainstream media and public discourse. Activism can help bring their stories and struggles to the forefront, fostering greater understanding and empathy.
• Movements like Dadaism and Surrealism emerged as responses to social and political upheavals, challenging conventional norms and encouraging new ways of thinking.
• Native Americans have unique legal status in the U.S., with sovereignty over their lands, yet they often face legal battles over land rights, resource extraction, and treaty violations. Activism in these areas can increase awareness of the complexities involved.
• Personal experiences with discrimination and inequality can deeply influence an artist's perspective and drive their commitment to activism. Harjo's work reflects a personal connection to the struggles of her community, adding authenticity and urgency to her message.
• Art, including poetry and music, serves as a powerful tool for indigenous activists to communicate their experiences, preserve their cultures, and inspire change. It can reach diverse audiences and foster empathy and understanding.

Motherhood, relationships, and the search for identity and purpose

This section of the book delves into the complex elements of the author's personal experiences, exploring her roles as a parent, her relationships, and her ongoing pursuit of understanding herself and finding significance in life. The author's narratives highlight the resilience and determination of women, particularly those of indigenous heritage, as they navigate societal expectations, face personal challenges, and address the intricacies of raising children in often challenging circumstances.

The author understood that, although it presented difficulties, accepting the role of a mother was a deeply significant journey during her earlier years.

Harjo embraced the intricacies of adult responsibilities while simultaneously charting her own path, which involved early motherhood. Raising a child on her own was made more challenging by economic hardships, the instability of her romantic relationships, and the enduring impact of her past traumas. However, motherhood also became a source of strength and inspiration, motivating her to enhance the well-being of her offspring and fueling her drive to pursue her artistic dreams.

The writer encountered difficulties in maintaining the health and happiness of her children amidst intricate familial dynamics.

Harjo candidly discusses the difficulties of single parenthood, which encompass not only the constant worry about providing food and shelter for her children but also the emotional toll taken by navigating complex family relationships. The author openly depicts the stark realities of poverty, detailing the unyielding struggle to attain financial security and the way it limited her choices and aspirations. She remembers a period when the survival of her family depended on assistance from the government as well as the generosity of relatives and acquaintances. This experience highlights the systemic inequalities that contribute to poverty within Native American communities and the challenges of breaking free from cycles of hardship.

Her mother-in-law served as both a pillar of support and a catalyst for strife in her life. The author appreciates the generosity of her partner's mother, who provided a place to stay and helped care for the children. However, their relationship was also strained, with jealousy and cultural disparities contributing to the stress of residing in a confined space. The author conveys that her mother-in-law turned to obscure ceremonies in hopes of convincing her to leave, highlighting the profound concerns that emerge when family bonds and social conventions are believed to be at risk.

Context

• Single parenthood often involves balancing multiple roles, such as being both the primary caregiver and the sole financial provider, which can lead to significant stress and exhaustion.
• The stress of financial insecurity can lead to mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, which can further complicate efforts to improve one’s economic situation.
• Programs like food stamps, housing assistance, and welfare are often crucial for families in poverty, but they can also be stigmatized and insufficient to meet all needs, highlighting gaps in the social safety net.
• Living under stress and in close quarters can heighten emotional responses, making conflicts more likely and support more necessary, creating a complex interplay of dependence and tension.
• The use of ceremonies or rituals to influence family dynamics can be rooted in spiritual beliefs, where such practices are seen as a means to address interpersonal conflicts or protect familial harmony.
• Cultural disparities often refer to differences in traditions, values, and social norms between groups. In Native American communities, these disparities can be pronounced when interacting with individuals from different cultural backgrounds, potentially leading to misunderstandings or conflicts.
• The mother-in-law's actions could be influenced by cultural expectations regarding family roles and responsibilities, where maintaining harmony and adhering to traditional values are prioritized.

Motherhood served as a wellspring of strength and motivation for the author.

Despite encountering many challenges, Harjo found deep joy and fulfillment in her role as a parent. Driven by her deep love for her children, she tirelessly pursued better opportunities, furthering her education and exploring platforms to exhibit her artistic talents. The author emphasizes the transformative power of love, its ability to create resilience and inspire hope, even in the face of adversity.

Harjo’s children also became a source of artistic inspiration. She is captivated by their interaction with the environment, seeing beauty in the simplicity of their everyday existence, which is marked by their genuine wonder and astonishment. The author's poetry commemorates the ephemeral nature of youth, applauding its tenacity while acknowledging its intrinsic bond with the natural environment. Motherhood greatly strengthened the resilience and insight of Joy Harjo, which deeply impacted her writing and transformed her perspective on life.

Context

• The psychological concept of "maternal instinct" suggests that motherhood can enhance empathy, patience, and resilience, qualities that can be motivational and provide strength in various life challenges.
• The challenges she faced as a parent were often compounded by societal and cultural pressures, which she navigated by drawing strength from her community and personal resilience.
• Throughout history, love has been a catalyst for social change, inspiring movements and individuals to overcome oppression and fight for justice.
• Her artistic inspiration from her children is likely intertwined with her exploration of identity and cultural legacy, themes prevalent in her work.
• Poetry often uses imagery and metaphor to explore complex themes. In celebrating youth and nature, poets might draw parallels between the growth of a child and the cycles of nature, such as the changing seasons or the life cycle of plants and animals.
• Raising children might have enhanced Harjo's ability to empathize with others, broadening her perspective and allowing her to write with greater emotional depth and authenticity.

The author's romantic relationships were marked by turbulence and abuse, but also moments of connection

Joy Harjo went through relationships that were intensely loving, emotionally turbulent, and sometimes involved abuse. The author's candid depiction of these connections underscores the intricate nature of affection and the difficulties involved in escaping patterns of trauma and dysfunction.

The author's connection with the father of her children was characterized by a lack of stability and was damaging.

Her initial union resulted in the birth of children and oscillated between periods of kindness and chaos. The author describes their initial connection as an intense mix of passion and common aspirations, bound together by a dedication to artistic expression and a resolve to enhance the conditions of indigenous communities. The union swiftly deteriorated due to her spouse's frequent battles with alcohol, which frequently led to physical and verbal abuse.

Harjo narrates a distressing event in which her husband, in a jealous rage and under the influence of alcohol, wreaked havoc on their home, compelling her to escape under the cover of darkness with her children for their protection. The author's candid narrative emphasizes the peril associated with romantic involvements with individuals battling substance addiction and struggling to manage their tempers. It also sheds light on the challenges of leaving abusive relationships, the emotional and logistical barriers that often trap women in cycles of violence.

Context

• The cycle of kindness and chaos can make it difficult for individuals to leave the relationship, as moments of kindness may foster hope for change, while chaotic episodes reinforce the need for self-preservation.
• The relationship unfolded during a period when Indigenous rights movements were gaining momentum in the United States, which may have influenced their shared goals and passions.
• Enhancing indigenous communities often includes cultural revitalization efforts, which aim to revive and sustain traditional practices, languages, and customs that may have been suppressed or lost due to historical oppression.
• The impact of witnessing domestic violence can be profound on children, affecting their emotional well-being and development.
• The decision to leave an abusive partner is emotionally taxing, involving fear, guilt, and the daunting prospect of starting over, which can deter individuals from taking action.
• The stigma surrounding addiction can isolate partners, making it difficult to seek help or support.
• Concerns about legal battles, especially regarding child custody, can deter victims from leaving.
• Isolation from friends and family is a common tactic used by abusers. Without a support network, women may feel they have nowhere to turn for help or shelter.

The author ultimately mustered the strength to exit the relationship and place her wellbeing first.

Harjo mustered the courage to exit the harmful relationship, ensuring not only her own health but also the protection of her offspring, despite the suffering and traumatic events she endured. The writer underscores the significance of cherishing oneself and the bravery required to escape detrimental habits, paving the way for recovery.

Harjo remembers a critical time when she envisioned ending the life of her abusive partner. She ultimately resolved to exit the partnership when she recognized that both her own well-being and the prospects of her offspring were in jeopardy. The author's decision to exit a detrimental partnership and prioritize her well-being powerfully exemplifies her resilience and self-empowerment, demonstrating the profound impact of claiming control over one's life and mustering the courage to forge a more hopeful future. Her decision enabled her to commit fully to her artistic endeavors, cultivate a supportive community, and ultimately heal the wounds of her past experiences.

Context

• Harjo's decision to leave the relationship is portrayed as a pivotal moment of self-empowerment, reflecting broader themes of liberation and self-discovery.
• The contemplation of such an extreme action often stems from a place of deep emotional distress and feeling trapped, highlighting the severity of the situation and the desperation felt by those in abusive relationships.
• Joy Harjo is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and her work often reflects Indigenous perspectives. Understanding her cultural background can provide insight into her resilience and the importance of community and identity in her healing process.
• Leaving a toxic relationship can provide the emotional and mental space necessary for creative pursuits, enabling individuals to focus on personal growth and artistic development.