Esther Calling - I Lost Him, But I Lost Myself Too
Feb 12, 2024
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In this podcast, Esther Perel explores the emotional aftermath of losing a loved one to suicide. The speaker reflects on their late husband's struggles with imposter syndrome and their desire for a new relationship. They also discuss their experiences with caregiving and the physical sensations associated with longing for connection. The chapter concludes with a caller seeking advice on finding love again after a difficult breakup.
46:23
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Quick takeaways
Reflecting on a past relationship, the speaker aims to reframe her memories and prioritize self-care in future relationships.
The speaker cherishes moments of connection and playfulness in her marriage, seeking to carry these positive memories into future relationships.
Deep dives
The Weight of Caretaking
The speaker reflects on her 25-year marriage, which ended tragically with her husband's suicide. She questions what she may have missed and normalized in their relationship. She wonders if she could have done something to save herself from the traumatic experience. She contemplates the imbalance in their relationship, where she became the primary caregiver and emotional support. Despite the challenges, she still cherishes the moments of affection and tenderness they shared. Now, she desires to move forward and find love again, but without losing herself and her playful, caring nature.
The Whistle of Connection
The speaker reminisces about a special whistle shared between her and her husband, a unique way of finding each other in stores. This intimate code symbolizes their connection and playfulness. She remembers feeling adored, seen, and desired, and wants to bring these positive memories to the forefront. She hopes to carry these moments of joy and playfulness into future relationships, knowing that she is capable of loving again.
Losing Herself in Caretaking
The speaker acknowledges that she lost herself in her husband's struggles with depression and anxiety. She reflects on the differences between caregiving for her husband and her experiences of caretaking for her younger sister, which had a sense of lightness and growth. She recognizes the need to prioritize herself in future relationships and avoid becoming consumed by someone else's challenges. She aims to balance her caregiving nature with her own needs and desires.
Embracing a Radiant Future
Despite the pain and loss she experienced, the speaker emphasizes her resilience and desire for a fulfilling life. She acknowledges the fear of never finding love again, but also recognizes the importance of embracing her radiant, playful self. She wants to radiate joy, attract various forms of love, and live fully without losing herself or succumbing to martyrdom. She affirms her commitment to love again in all its forms and to prioritize her own happiness.
She lost her husband five years ago. Now, she's finally ready to start picking up the pieces of her life to begin dating. Esther talks her through what it might mean to reframe her memories of their relationship. This conversation contains discussions of depression and death by suicide. Please take care listening.
For the first time on the U.S. stage, Esther invites you to an evening unlike any other. Join her as she shines a light on the cultural shifts transforming relationships and helps us rethink how we connect, how we desire – and even how we love. To find a city near you, go to https://www.estherperel.com/tour2024
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