An Antidote To Shame

Life slows,

and finally, when we need it the most, seconds before we might explode,

we find the time to reflect.

The repressed self pulls at us, 

guiding us to where we need to go,

hammering us with what we’ve been avoiding.

We almost forgot,

we were making friends with our own Shadow,

before she punched a hole in our soul

and we willingly crawled on our bellies through the hole

to make sure

she was okay. 

Oh how the Shadow has grown now. 

And he’s more distinct—more defined—more calcified. 

We sit down to talk to our friend again. 

And this time,

we tell him,

we must learn to forgive. 

In a deep and gravely voice, Shadow tells me, 

“Forgiveness is the antidote to shame. Pain will rot our souls until we forgive ourselves. Resentment will gnaw at our bones until we learn to let go. Guilt is a guide, pointing us to what needs repair; but shame is a slow poisoning of the self. Forgiveness is the antidote. Drink it. And let there be light. Forgive, and let hope breathe again.”

I stand there and stare. Shadow is so aware. He knows more than I do. Maybe it’s I who should listen to him?

CH 9/25/26