SongWriter turns stories into songs Flourishing After Disaster: Patrice Francis + Selah Moonie
Jan 27, 2026
Dr. Stephanie Hutchison, a researcher of post-traumatic growth, explains findings about strengthened spiritual and social bonds and openness to new paths. Patrice Francis, Bahamian playwright and teacher, performs a live dramatic piece about recovery after Hurricane Dorian. Selah Moonie, Bahamian singer-songwriter, talks about sustaining original artistry and debuts a song written in response. They explore meaning, faith, community, and creative resilience.
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Choosing A Different Hurricane Story
- Patrice recounts choosing to tell what Hurricane Dorian gave her instead of only what it took.
- She reframes the storm as 'Dorian' and seeks gains amid profound loss.
Faith Strengthened Through Crisis
- Trauma redirected Patrice's prayer into hymns that strengthened her faith with new intensity.
- That intensified faith helped her breathe again and begin rebuilding emotionally.
Forgiveness Over Pear Leaf Tea
- Patrice describes knocking on her brother Frederick's door after ten years of silence and being welcomed with pear leaf tea and sweet milk.
- That small ritual signaled forgiveness and belonging during displacement.