Facing the Painful Stuff
Pamela Brewer, MSW, Ph.D., LCSW-C
It's often hard to see that which feels too painful to see. For many of us...the ability to turn "a blind eye" feels like a welcome skill. But is it? Ask yourself these questions and then you decide.
What am I afraid of?
Are my fears based in reality?
Have I ever experienced this before?
How have I dealt with difficulties in the past?
What resources are available to me now?
What will happen if what I most fear is true or is coming true?
What do I need in order to be able to survive?
How do I benefit from not paying attention to that which I fear?
Am I harming myself/others by turning away?
Do I deserve to turn away?
These have been difficult questions to answer—take your time. When you have answered them, you may find yourself in a better position to have an honest dialogue...with you!