Do! Feed the gators!
August 14, 2025
Sarah Whitmire, PhD, LMFTS, LCMHCS
For the past 3 years, I take an annual girls trip with my daughters, mother, and mother-in-law. This has been a special tradition of ours which I cherish. On our most recent trip, we arrived (on time) for a significantly delayed hotel room. Those who know and love me have come to accept that patience is not a part of my framework – so clearly, I took action. And that action transpired to a visit at a local alligator zoo.
When we arrived to our destination, the ticket sales person informed us that we entered just in time for the last feeding. My children were ecstatic. “Yes mommy! Feeding time!” So we hurried to the section where the alligators were being fed. It was remarkable. Circling the water and just waiting for some fresh meat. And this got me thinking…
How can I tie this into a therapy metaphor? Well. Here we go.
Alligators and crocodiles are beautiful, prehistoric beasts. They conceal in water and expose on land. Their ability to live in “two worlds” string together a beautiful symbolism of life – somewhat of a road map of learning how to bring the unconscious (in the water) to what is conscious (on land). Many renowned psychiatrists, therapists, and other various healers encourage delving into the depths of our psyche in order to heal – the fundamental view being that healing occurs within the confines of awareness and action. Like the gator, we all live in two worlds – our unconscious and conscious selves – and in an effort to heal, we need to bring what is unconscious to “land” where we can explore the depths of who we are in the open.
Exploring leads to understanding, and understanding lays the groundwork for healing. This fosters our restoration. So feed the gators of your soul. Allow the space and time for them to dive into the depths of who you are - consequently bringing more to surface, where you can embrace all parts of you - the shadows and tender parts.
In an effort to initiate exploration, consider what are some of your automatic triggers in life? For instance, are there situations which you immediately are triggered? If so, why? Envision your “gator” – a source of prehistoric wisdom – delving deep into your psyche and searching for the answer to bring to “land”. Journal about your triggers daily – writing all that comes to mind. After 10 consecutive days of writing, read back through your entries and see if there are any themes. Share your journal entries with your therapist – sometimes it can be helpful to have another perspective.
Diving into the waters can be intimidating. Yet, it is the necessary work in healing. Thread together your “two worlds” and explore the depths of who you are. And do this by feeding the gators!
