Rethinking What It Means to Be Good (with author Maggie Smith)
Jun 18, 2024
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Maggie Smith, a New York Times bestselling author, shares her touching journey through divorce and the evolution of her views on forgiveness. She delves into the complexities of vulnerability in writing, discussing how personal experiences enrich storytelling. The conversation touches on the beauty of imperfection in healing and the metaphor of Kintsugi to find strength in life's challenges. Smith also explores the importance of embracing emotional contradictions and navigating the societal pressures surrounding forgiveness and acceptance.
Embracing contradictions within ourselves and acknowledging complex emotions allows for personal growth and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Writing authentically about painful experiences fosters vulnerability and connection, creating a sense of community among those who share similar struggles.
Deep dives
The Power of Letting Go
Letting go of things too tightly can open up pathways for personal empowerment and growth. It is essential to wish for and want things while allowing oneself the freedom to release them, as this aligns with the limitless nature of the soul. Relying solely on external support can hinder individual courage and self-reliance. Embracing the idea of courageous participation can attract positive outcomes and transformative experiences.
Authenticity Through Vulnerability
Authentic connections in relationships require honesty, even when discussing painful experiences like divorce. The conversation highlights that true narratives resonate more deeply when the writer presents their struggles without fear of judgment. Writing without embellishment allows for shared vulnerability, making the reader feel they are not alone in their experiences. This process nurtures a familiarity between the author and the reader, creating a sense of friendship through shared struggles.
Embracing Complexity and Contradictions
Acknowledging life's complexities, especially in emotional struggles, is crucial for personal reflection and artistic creation. The speaker describes the importance of being able to hold contradictory feelings, such as love and grief, within a single narrative. This creates space for deeper understanding, pushing past simplistic dichotomies and allowing for a more nuanced human experience. Accepting flawed and messy realities encourages healing and helps foster resilience in the face of adversity.
Literary Community and Collective Healing
The role of literature and shared stories serves as a vital support system during difficult times. Engaging with the writings of others can create a sense of community, as readers relate to shared narratives and find resonance in different experiences. The conversation emphasizes how writing can be a form of self-help by not offering solutions but instead providing companionship through articulating struggles. Connecting with collective insights can empower individuals to face their challenges with a sense of belonging and understanding.
The New York Times–bestselling author of You Could Make This Place Beautiful joins Cleo Wade to talk about her journey through divorce, the writing process, her view on forgiveness today, and what happens when we allow ourselves to hold contradictions and complicated feelings at the same time.