Teddy Bear

Creating Space Project

Amy Martinez listens to the story of Isabelle from Belle and the Bear, in which Isabelle’s bear was stolen by her mother’s abusive partner.

“I feel like [the teddy bear] stands for something else that has been taken away from her.”

The sadness that Amy feels for Isabelle relates also to her own experiences in childhood. Now, as a young adult, Amy says she is starting to notice the ways in which people hold power over her.

For example, she had a boyfriend who was very controlling.

“He knew that I cared so much about him that he could do whatever he wanted and get away with it because he could say certain things to bring me back.”

Amy’s reflection is a curious mix of vulnerability and courage. It takes a lot of strength to allow yourself to publically experience and express strength and there’s a lot to be learnt here about emotional resilience and getting to know yourself.