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anita

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Viewing 15 posts - 331 through 345 (of 3,446 total)
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  • in reply to: Transcendence #445869
    anita
    Participant

    Dear Alessa:

    I will reply further in the morning, but for now: I have this feeling that something is wrong: it’s been days since ALL the Original Posts in ALL of the threads since the start of the forums in 2013, all have disappeared. When a new member recently started her own thread, her original post did not show up. There was no notification or update from the website about this.. so, this is very strange.

    anita

    in reply to: Transcendence #445847
    anita
    Participant

    Early Morning Thoughts: When a person feels fragmented within, they search for external belonging to fill the void. That deep need for connection and meaning can drive people toward healthy or destructive paths.

    * Constructive belonging – Finding a sense of self through authentic relationships, creativity, purpose-driven work, and emotional healing.

    * Destructive belonging – A search for connection within toxic relationships, gangs, or ideological movements that replace personal identity with group identity.

    These groups demand absolute allegiance, making individuals feel powerful only within their structure, reinforcing an Us vs. Them mentality that labels outsiders as enemies or inferior, further solidifying loyalty within the group.

    They offer a clear mission—whether political, religious, or cultural—that instills a sense of purpose and importance, even when that purpose leads to harmful actions (e.g., Houthis, Hamas, ISIS, and others).

    The journey from self-fragmentation to integration is a path toward transcending suffering of the individual and of society. True belonging comes from self-acceptance, from choosing environments that encourage growth and authenticity rather than blind allegiance.

    Transcending suffering is not about escaping pain, but moving through it with awareness—learning that healing comes from self-reunion, self-expression, and self-trust, rather than suppression or avoidance.

    anita

    in reply to: Transcendence #445845
    anita
    Participant

    Late Evening Stream of Consciousness Writing, Whatever comes to Mind:

    My goal is to be reunited with myself, following decades-long Fragmentation, a fracture within myself.

    I just want me back. I want Integration.

    From Repression and Suppression to Expression.

    To befriend the estranged me.

    Sadly, my fragmentation, self-estrangement, is not unique to me. I see fragmented, self-estranged people every day in real life (in between my online almost-noon streams of consciousness writings and evening writings). I see people yearning to reconnect with themselves.

    The fracture within oneself is real, a universal problem which makes any kind of sense of belonging very attractive, such as a life of crime or terrorism. If a person feels a sense of belonging within a gang or a terrorist group, a sense of reconnection with oneself- then that’s the way, all the way to destruction.

    I see the fracture originating in childhood: the child needing the parent, but the parent has other priorities, or personal hurts and unfinished business that turns them away from, or against their own child, in one way or another.

    The result: a child, shocked. Traumatized. Fragmented.

    And the parent may not be able to do any better for their child, fragmented themselves. And the tragedy continues from one generation to the next.

    And so it goes, so it is.

    anita

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445843
    anita
    Participant

    Dear Alessa:

    Thank you for sharing more of your perspective—I appreciate your thoughtful approach to these conversations. ❤️

    Your insight about how repeated negative messages can be more damaging over time really resonated with me. It makes sense that new criticism feels different depending on past experiences—it’s something I relate to deeply.

    I can imagine how tough it must have been to suddenly experience fat-shaming during pregnancy when it hadn’t been a part of your life before. It’s so frustrating how people feel entitled to comment on a pregnant person’s body—as if pregnancy somehow removes basic respect for personal boundaries.

    What you shared about childhood neglect struck me, too. The lack of attention from others may have spared you from direct criticism, but being unseen comes with its own painful impact.

    I admire how you’ve worked on conflict resolution and are reaching a place where you feel more comfortable handling it. It’s no small thing—engaging with conflict calmly takes a lot of emotional strength.

    I wholeheartedly agree that communication is complicated, but conversations like this remind me why it’s so valuable to engage with thoughtful people like you. 💙

    Thank you again for sharing your experiences. Wishing you well ❤️

    anita

    in reply to: Transcendence #445842
    anita
    Participant

    Almost Noon-Time Stream of Consciousness Writing-

    Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how, in the past, I sometimes came across as confrontational and harsh in tone, more corrective than collaborative, even when that was not my intent.

    I’m learning to change this.

    I’m learning to Transcend this tendency and communication style—to approach conversations with more openness, softness, and intentionality instead of impulsively.

    I realize that my directness and intensity may have influenced others to mirror that same harsh tone and confrontational approach toward me. While I know that I am not responsible for others’ words or actions, I want to become more aware of how I contribute to the dynamics of negative interactions.

    If my mother were here, reading this thread, this would have been a precious opportunity for her to lash out at me, saying something like: “So you admit it! You ARE harsh and confrontational! I told you all along that you are BAD, and I was right—see?”

    And from there, she would continue, listing all the ways she believes I made her life miserable.

    This is why it has been so difficult for me to accept any form of criticism—even when it was gentle and appropriate. Over time, I learned to associate criticism with an invitation for further abuse, a cycle that made it nearly impossible to separate constructive feedback from harmful attacks.

    I’m working on rewiring that association—so that I can receive feedback without fear, without anticipating pain, and without the weight of past wounds coloring my perception.

    Having said that, I have no doubt that there are people—like my mother—who will never relinquish their aggression toward me, no matter what I say or how honestly I express myself. Some remain rigid in their perception, unwilling to shift their view of me, trapped in their own judgment.

    People like my mother would not—could not—refuse to listen, unwilling to recognize or acknowledge anything good about me.

    The tragedy of my life has been exactly that—a good little girl, forever seen as a bad person by her own mother.

    Being told to “get over it” (as I mentioned in my other thread) severely minimizes the lasting impact of a decades-long experience—a child’s relationship with her mother, shaped in isolation because she was the only parental figure in practice, and there were no positive outside influences—no supportive family members, teachers, neighbors—her words and actions became an unyielding force, defining my world without contrast or refuge.

    To dismiss that experience so casually is to overlook the depth and permanence of its imprint.

    have three childhood memories of receiving support:

    My aunt Suzi’s kindness—though she never confronted her sister, my mother.

    My uncle Moris’s attention—that one time he asked me what I felt or thought about something. No one had ever asked me that before.

    Rosie, the neighbor, who protested against something my mother was doing to me, saying: “This is not good for her.” I remember her exact words because, before that moment, no one had ever expressed care about what was good or not good for me.

    But these moments were not enough to counter or offset the overwhelming influence my mother had on my psyche.

    Bringing it back to the present, I am doing my very best to continue to heal from that overwhelming negative influence. My healing efforts are working, and criticism will not accelerate the process—in fact, it can only hurt me, slowing my progress or even halting it entirely.

    I grew up receiving so much criticism—or rather, growing inward, as I withdrew from life—that more of it could never do me any good.

    However, honest, constructive, and gentle feedback about how I come across to you is different from criticism. That, I welcome.

    anita

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445839
    anita
    Participant

    Dear Alessa:

    Thank you for sharing your perspective. I really appreciate how openly and directly you express your thoughts—your honesty makes your viewpoint clear and easy to understand.

    At the same time, you bring a deep sense of empathy. You recognize emotional wounds with care while keeping a balanced, thoughtful perspective, creating space for meaningful conversation. I admire how you blend personal insight with a broader understanding of complex topics, weaving together autonomy, trauma, connection, and criticism in a way that feels both personal and universally relevant.

    It’s interesting to hear that being told to “get over it” hasn’t been a trigger for you. I believe tone plays a significant role—if it’s said with gentleness and empathy, I might be able to receive it. But if it’s harsh and dismissive, it’s something I could never accept.

    Context matters too. If I ask for someone’s input, that’s one thing. But if I share something deeply personal and someone interjects—uninvited—with a harsh, judgmental, or dismissive tone, that’s entirely different.

    Your story about childbirth really struck me. It’s frustrating how people feel entitled to strong opinions about such deeply personal choices—especially when trauma is involved. I admire how you prioritized your own well-being over external expectations, and I think that if I were younger and pregnant, I would have undoubtedly chosen an elective C-section over natural birth for similar reasons.

    I also truly appreciate your kindness and validation regarding my past experiences. That meant a lot. 💙

    Your insight on criticism being rooted in others’ pain resonated deeply with me. When we recognize that, it can change how we process hurt. Holding space for each other’s pain is so important, and I love how you expressed that.

    Alessa, I really appreciate you sharing such personal experiences here. I’m curious—if someone were to criticize you harshly in this thread, regarding the vulnerable things you’ve shared, how do you think you would handle it? Would you brush it off, engage with them, or something else entirely?

    I also relate to your view on quality over quantity in relationships. These kinds of deep, meaningful conversations remind me why connection matters so much. 🙂

    Looking forward to hearing more of your insights. Wishing you well. ❤️

    anita

    anita
    Participant

    Dear Alessa,

    Thank you so much for your kind words—they truly mean a lot to me and brought my first 😊 to my face this early Saturday morning.

    I really appreciate you reminding me that even small interactions add up over time. More than just numbers, it’s the connection, the shared thoughts, and the mutual support that make this space truly meaningful.

    Your encouragement is a gift. Thank you for seeing and acknowledging what I sometimes overlook.

    I hope you’re doing well—I always appreciate hearing from you! ❤️

    anita

    anita
    Participant

    Dear Heather:

    just want to acknowledge that self-judgment, overthinking, and anxiety aren’t easy to experience. They can feel exhausting, overwhelming, and deeply ingrained. I know this firsthand—I struggled with severe self-judgment for most of my life and only recently found relief.

    I also want to remind you that none of this is your fault. These patterns don’t just appear out of nowhere; they’re often shaped by childhood experiences (the so called Formative Years, the years that formed us). But they don’t have to define your future.

    If it ever feels helpful, I’d be happy to share what helped me find relief. No pressure—just know that you’re not alone in this. 💙

    anita

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445831
    anita
    Participant

    The longing hums, a quiet, loud plea,
    A wish for warmth, for depth, for We.

    Like stars that speak beyond the night.

    The longing hums, a whispered plea,
    For arms that hold, for eyes that see.

    A word, a step, a reaching hand,
    A space where hearts can understand.
    Beyond the silence, past the doubt,
    A light that flickers, burning out.

    We touch, we break, we long to be.

    anita

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445830
    anita
    Participant

    More: Strange, it’s not about seeking approval, or even acknowledgement. After all, I don’t even know if anyone is reading this… wait, no, wrong: there’s always something I am seeking: connection, more connection.

    It is amazing how Emptiness that felt Eternal closes in upon itself, resisting the connection it longed for, for too long.

    We people needing each other, yet resisting, pushing each other away.

    anita

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445829
    anita
    Participant

    * no, no: no longer suited to jumping, I am definitely suited for dancing 💃🕺🎶🎉✨

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445828
    anita
    Participant

    no longer congruent with jumping.. or no longer suited to dancing 😊

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445827
    anita
    Participant

    Evening Stream of Consciousness Writing Time (whatever comes to mind):

    I am at peace this evening with my past, the losses, the missed opportunities, the life unlived.

    I am at peace with 10-year-old me, 20-year old me.. all the way to now.

    I am okay with me being me- when anxious, when happy, when angry.

    I like me!

    Finally, I am my own best friend.

    I am an older woman now.

    Not in my mind’s eye, not in my heart- there, I am only ten.

    And when I look in the eyes of people my age, or people much older than me, I see boys and girls like me.

    The white hair, the wrinkles, the arthritis- all these don’t fool me.

    Sometimes when I see a real-life teenager, I see a very old person. Just like I was at that age.

    See me in the photo?

    That is me dancing, me being young.

    Some time before that photo, I was dancing to live music, and a 10-year-old joined me, dancing, jumping!

    I followed suit and jumped and jumped, only to realize the day after that I am no longer suited congruent with jumping. It hurt for a few days. No more jumping for me.

    So, this is all I have in mind and heart this Friday evening.

    anita

    in reply to: Why Telling Survivors to ‘Get Over It’ Is Harmful #445826
    anita
    Participant

    It’s mid-day Stream of Consciousness Writing Time, whatever comes to mind:

    Nothing comes to mind, then something does, but judged worthless.. not a good beginning.

    Let’s try again.

    Wait, I just judged the beginning as not good.

    Start over: little girl anita felt hurt just now about me judging her thought or thoughts as not good enough for this post.

    – I am sorry, little girl anita. It amazes me how much hurt is inside of you. Tell me about it..?

    * Why? You will make fun of me if I do!

    – No, no. I promised you. I am sorry, it takes a lot to .. I mean, I make mistakes.

    * You always tell me that it’s okay to make mistakes.

    – Yes, I do say it. Yes. So, it’s okay if I make mistakes?

    * Yes, I suppose so, but not too many, not beyond a certain level.

    -You are talking like I talk, using big words “beyond a certain level”, not the way a child would talk.

    * I guess we are getting confused.

    – Confusion in Clarity, Clarity in Confusion.

    * You sound like Peter!

    – Let’s end this strange post with some clarity!

    * Why, Peter says it’s okay to be confused.

    – Oh, I see. I am seeking control when it’s not necessary.

    * Yes, just let me be.

    – I had no idea I was bothering you!

    * Wel, you mean well, it’s just that I don’t need to be micromanaged.

    – This conversation feels like more than I am prepared for right now.

    * My point. Don’t always have to be prepared.

    End of (almost) noon time Stream of Consciousness.

    anita

    in reply to: Transcendence #445825
    anita
    Participant

    Dear Peter:

    “An experience of silence in noise, stillness in motion and darkness is light.”- presence in absence, peace in chaos, strength in surrender.

    I would never think of strength in surrender. I always thought it was weak to surrender. I am now thinking, surrendering- if done for the greater good- is a strength. Having the bigger picture in mind, bigger than the me-me-me ego.

    Ego Transcendence (ET, lol)

    anita

Viewing 15 posts - 331 through 345 (of 3,446 total)