In the wake of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain's deaths, conversations of suicide and mental health awareness have been at the forefront of cultural conversations. This morning, Kevin DeVries and Pastor Brian Smilde of Immanuel Reformed Church join West Michigan Live to talk about Base Camp, a monthly meeting held at Founder's Brewing Co. where men can share their struggles in a safe and supportive environment.
"For over thirty years, I was powering the shields," says Smilde, comparing the trauma he had closed off for so long to a spaceship in Star Trek. "When you get into hostile territory, you've got to power the shields. After a while, you start draining energy from your spaceship. Then, you have to draw power from other systems on the ship, or you turn the shields off." As a child, Smilde had experienced a sexually traumatic event which he kept secret for decades, fearing isolation from friends and family.
"When [we] go through some kind of painful moment in life - trauma, disappointment - it latches hold on us, and we often have to interpret that on our own. If we don't talk to anyone and just interpret it on our own, that's when we get into negative self-talk." Smilde describes the effects of dealing with this trauma and self-criticism on his own. Over time, all of the systems on his metaphorical ship began to shut down. However, after seeking counseling and pursuing a path of self-compassion, Smilde has entered a period of "immense liberation" that has involved opening up about his experiences.
Base Camp is described in the event's web page on graceexplorations.com as "a brave company of 150 men that gather together for beer (cash bar), brotherhood and story hour, with storytellers whose stories of grit and grace exemplify authentic life." Stories like Brian Smilde's are highlighted to show that no one is alone on their journey to physical and spiritual healing. Though the topics of suicide and mental health are incredibly complex, events like Base Camp allow for individuals suffering from internal battles to share their stories and begin finding help by connecting with humanity.
The next Base Camp meeting will be held Sunday, June 10 at Founder's Brewing Co.