Things to Remember
How to get the best of the work we'll do together.
These are more boundaries than rules. Perhaps it is better to call them statements of intent agreed upon in order to help us on our way. As The Distant Fire has grown from the spark of an idea, I’ve realised that certain tenets need to be in place. These are ground rules for us to get us to the place where we can do our best work.
Be Honest.
Good storytelling depends on honesty. Knowing the truth of what you’re saying allows you greater freedom in continuing to explore it to its end and to find the truth at its heart.
This isn’t a science experiment - there’s no ultimate truth here, just the truth which has the most meaning for you. You’re not explaining, you’re exploring.
We are not searching for an ultimate truth, but rather a meaningful truth.
No-one will ever read the stories you tell.
Unless, of course, you let them. For the purposes of The Distant Fire it is imperative that any of the words you write, or stories you record as you speak them out loud are yours, and yours alone.
This is the contract we agree to. To be responsible and to keep secret and safe any of the recorded outcomes of the work we do together. If you choose to share any of it, be mindful that the choice alone is yours.
The Distant Fire only works if you give yourself the freedom to express yourself and tell your stories in a manner wholly unconnected with any other person, living or dead. This is the permission we need to give ourselves.
This is not therapy.
I deeply respect the practice of proper therapy, and this is in no way a substitute for the services of a trained, qualified professional. If you believe therapy is something you’d benefit from, I wholeheartedly urge you to seek some out. The Distant Fire may be able to help you as you undertake therapy, but it should not be seen as a replacement for it.
Some of the stories you tell may be difficult, and while I try to avoid this, I’d be remiss in not including contacts for professional services around the world.
If you do want to contact a therapist, here are a few places to start.
UK:
INTERNATIONAL:
International Therapist Directory