Sacred Grief, Sacred Rage, and When Shame Becomes Identity
Today’s Reflection — There are emotions many of us were taught to hide, minimize, or pathologize — especially grief, anger, and shame. But often, these emotions begin as signals, not flaws. They point to loss, violated boundaries, unmet needs, or moments when we had to abandon parts of ourselves to survive. Let’s explore this gently and honestly: • When you experience grief or anger, what do you notice your body, thoughts, or behaviors doing? • Can you remember a time when grief or rage felt protective, clarifying, or truth-telling rather than destructive? • Shame often starts as something we feel — but sometimes it slowly becomes something we believe we are. Have you ever caught yourself defining your identity through shame-based beliefs (ex: “I am too much,” “I am broken,” “I am unlovable,” etc.)? • If shame is a learned survival response rather than truth, what part of you might it be trying to protect? You are welcome to share reflections, examples, or simply what resonates. You are also welcome to pass and just read. Both are participation. Community Reminder: Respond to others with witnessing, not fixing. Share from your own experience rather than advising unless someone asks for support.