Esther Calling - Part of Me Wants to Cheat Part Two
Jan 25, 2024
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This episode explores the aftermath of a traumatic experience, the struggles with negative thoughts and temptation in a relationship, the concept of trauma reenactment and desire to cheat for power, the consequences of not questioning negative thoughts leading to shame and hiddenness, and the challenges of forgiveness when there is no remorse.
34:21
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Quick takeaways
Trauma reenactment can manifest as intrusive thoughts and affect one's current relationships, requiring open communication and understanding to heal.
Anger can be repurposed as a positive force for sexual assault survivors, fighting against shame and hiddenness, and empowering them to reclaim control and pleasure in life.
Deep dives
Challenging the Hiddenness of Trauma
The podcast episode explores the concept of trauma reenactment and how it relates to the experience of sexual assault. The guest shares how her intrusive thoughts, often referred to as the 'evil voice,' make her question and challenge her own actions in her current relationship. She reflects on the shame and hiddenness associated with the assault, and how her partner's lack of curiosity exacerbates these feelings. The host emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the hiddenness and working through the trauma with open communication and understanding.
The Power of Anger in Healing
The discussion delves into the role of anger in the healing process of sexual assault survivors. The host and guest explore how anger can be repurposed as a positive force, fighting against the shame and hiddenness associated with the trauma. They emphasize the need to give voice to anger and to set boundaries with loved ones who unintentionally contribute to reinforcing the hiddenness of the experience. The host encourages the guest to embrace her anger as an ally in reclaiming control, connection, and pleasure in her life.
Navigating Forgiveness and Accountability
The podcast episode concludes with a conversation about forgiveness and accountability in the aftermath of sexual assault. The guest shares her initial willingness to forgive her assailant without holding him accountable for his actions. The host highlights the importance of perpetrators taking responsibility and showing remorse for their behavior before forgiveness can be meaningful. They also discuss the significance of the guest's journey in navigating forgiveness for the self and finding closure with her past.
This episode contains discussions of a sexual trauma. Please take care listening. This is the second part of a special two part conversation. Certain conversations stay with Esther long after the caller has hung up. And in this case, Esther wanted to follow up and go further with the young woman with the voice inside her head telling her to cheat on her partner. But this evil voice is not her own. It is that of her assailant in a form of trauma reenactment.
Esther Callings are a one time, 45-60 minute interventional phone call with Esther. They are edited for time, clarity, and anonymity. If you have a question you would like to talk through with Esther, send a voice memo to producer@estherperel.com.
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