Posted by Captain Eela Dasca (Lt. Governor) in Iven’s Office- Trauma Doesn’t Keep to a Schedule

Posted by Lieutenant Séan Iven (Counselor) in Iven’s Office- Trauma Doesn’t Keep to a Schedule

Posted by Captain Eela Dasca (Lt. Governor) in Iven’s Office- Trauma Doesn’t Keep to a Schedule

(snip)

Eela nodded slowly. “I know without a doubt I’m not alone. People came this morning because I was in need to help and I am very grateful to them.” She paused, gathering her words, not because she wanted to be careful with them, but because her mind needed to sort through the jumble that had surfaced. “We’ll definitely be talking more, because there is only so much I can process right now. And I think that’s the harder part. Unlike the recent event with my ex-husband, this is not just personal. It’s professional too. The lines are blurred so badly, despite the fact that Dash and I had kept things at work very professional. But his death has massive ramifications for Oed, for our dealings with our Vren guests, for our Federation Ambassador and the Embassy they were still in the process of staffing. All of this I can’t ignore. Oed needs it’s Lieutenant Governor and I’m used to compartmentalizing in order to make sure things happen and more people don’t get hurt, but… all I want to do is curl up in bed and not surface for a week,” she said with a bitter laugh. It was not possible for her now. Ever. Not in a situation like this. Vacation, yes, but that was not the situation before her.

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov.

Séan nodded in understanding. “It’s a tremendous burden, especially when personal and professional aspects intertwine in such a complex way. Grieving while navigating the responsibilities of your role adds an extra layer of challenge. It’s completely valid to feel the need to retreat, but as you said, the demands of your position don’t afford you that luxury at the moment.”

He leaned forward slightly, expressing empathy. “It’s crucial to acknowledge your own needs in this process. If there’s a way to delegate certain responsibilities temporarily or if there are support systems within your staff that can share the load, it might help ease the immediate pressure. Grieving isn’t a linear process, and it’s okay to adjust your approach as needed. Self-compassion is key, and finding that balance between your personal well-being and professional responsibilities is a delicate but necessary pursuit.”

Counselor Iven

She nodded, taking deep breaths that Eela hoped would steady her through this conversation. “My staff are well used to deflecting work when it is required. At least we had a trial run of that when my ex showed up. As it is, my meetings for the next 48 hours have been cancelled. I know the Governor will take on what I cannot right now, but the reality is that I get today, maybe a bit of tomorrow, but then I have to be back out there. Ambassador Mathis needs assistance and I’ve been working closely with her. We have a rapport, and now a common grief. Dash was… family to her and her family. They need support too.”

Eela gazed past Karilan to look out the windows that provided such a lovely view of Kenzo’s gardens. “I can’t change what’s happened. All I can do is work through it from here. But there are things I’ve realized that have much deeper implications for other events in my life.” She looked back at Séan. “I suppose it’s just more of the same unravelling of truths I’ve been doing since my ex blew through here and upended my life.”

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov.

Séan listened attentively, recognizing the intricate dance of responsibilities and personal emotions that Eela was navigating. “It’s evident that you’re adept at managing crises, and I appreciate your candor in sharing your experiences. It sounds like you’re acutely aware of the broader impact of Dash’s passing on those around you and the larger diplomatic context. The unraveling of truths can indeed be a challenging process, often revealing unexpected connections and vulnerabilities.”

He leaned back slightly, his expression thoughtful. “While the circumstances are undoubtedly difficult, it’s also an opportunity for growth and understanding, both personally and professionally. The support you’re providing to Ambassador Mathis and others is a testament to your resilience and dedication. Just remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to lean on your own support systems, whether it’s friends, colleagues, or even taking moments for self-reflection.”

Counselor Iven

Her gaze dipped. “I know that… and yet I can feel that strange part of me that wants to pull away.” Eela took a deep breath and looked at Séan again. “I know where it comes from, and that is not something we can tackle right now, but for a Haliian whose physical, mental, and spiritual well-being depends on connection with others, it’s hard in moments like these. And I know I have a great deal of support, and my support system has expanded greatly since I came to Oed.” The but sat there, daring to be said. It was hard to admit, especially given everything that had happened this morning already, and the incredible things people had been willing to do for her. And that was not even factoring in the man she was grieving for whom had happily spent hours in her company.

She couldn’t hide the pain from her eyes and so Eela didn’t even try. “There’s a part of me that doesn’t want to take focus and energy away from where it should be, or rather where I think it should be. Which most times is elsewhere from myself. And if I too can focus elsewhere, then it’s easier to get through the difficult things, even though I know I will have to stop and reconcile it all at some point.”

~Eela Dasca, Lt. Gov.

Séan nodded, recognizing the internal struggle Eela was articulating. “It’s completely natural to feel that pull, especially when your instinct is to be there for others. Yet, it’s important to acknowledge your own needs and emotions. Grief is a complex process, and everyone navigates it differently. While your commitment to your responsibilities is commendable, taking time for yourself doesn’t detract from your ability to support others.”

He offered a gentle smile. “Allowing yourself moments of introspection and acknowledging your own grief isn’t a diversion from where your focus ‘should’ be; it’s an essential part of the healing process. You’re not alone in this, and there’s no rush to reconcile everything. Your support system is there for you, and they understand the weight you’re carrying.”

Counselor Iven