From the Somnia Tarot, Judgment; from the Spirits of Nature Oracle, Cave:
Guilt is just as powerful, but its influence is positive, while shame is destructive. Shame erodes our courage and fuels disengagement. ―Brene Brown
Judgment is a wake-up call. It's like being in a dark house with all the windows and doors covered and shut, and then suddenly opening them and allowing the sun to shine through. Our perspective is completely changed, and we see clearly our mistaken views and misdeeds. Problems arise when instead of feeling guilt (I did something wrong), we feel shame (I'm a worthless person). Research has shown that guilt is adaptative (we have a positive focus - amends and restitution). But shame is maladaptive and often associated with substance abuse and other problems. The Cave implies an initiation, and shame is a hellish one. How do we move into and through it? Consider seeing a therapist or joining a support group. Pause any negative self-talk and replace it with something positive, such as: "I am worthy and deserve to have a good life." Don't give up; that light will shine again.
It strikes me that your self-published Elements of Recovery deck is a good support for these emotions. I rotate several decks and bring them down to my living room bookshelves, and I’m hankering to use your Lojong for the Layperson deck and it’s booklet plus my extra book. With such turmoil around, it’s important to have such studies. (J)
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