The Witness Within #31 Mercy and Mercenary - Musa Muhaiyaddeen
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Jan 29, 2021 The discussion kicks off with the journey from infant vulnerability to adult self-defense. It explores how childhood experiences forge emotional armor, contrasting urban and small-town social dynamics. The conversation deep dives into the meanings of true mercy versus mercenary compassion, illustrating with poignant stories of empathy and sacrifice. Lastly, it emphasizes that loving others can lead to spiritual growth and closeness to the divine.
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From Vulnerability To Defensive Desensitization
- Humans are born extremely vulnerable and gradually build defenses as they learn the world is unsafe.
- This desensitization limits empathy and narrows what we can emotionally process.
Pain Drives Emotional Withdrawal
- People desensitize further after painful rejections and protect themselves by limiting emotional input.
- That defense prevents authentic empathy because it avoids the risk of being hurt again.
City Life Encourages Emotional Armor
- Urban environments intensify desensitization because high density raises perceived danger and anonymity.
- People in big cities keep moving to avoid unpredictable interactions and potential harm.