Chapter 13
The Forest of Self-Destruction
Ere Nessus yet had reach’d the other bank, We enter’d on a forest, where no track Of steps had worn a way. Not verdant there The foliage, but of dusky hue; not light The boughs and tapering, but with knares deform’d And matted thick: fruits there were none, but thorns Instead, with venom fill’d. Less sharp than these, Less intricate the brakes, wherein abide Those animals, that hate the cultur’d fields, Betwixt Corneto and Cecina’s stream. Here the brute Harpies make their nest, the same Who from the Strophades the Trojan band Drove with dire boding of their future woe.…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Separate the Voice from the Truth
Think of a time when you felt deeply ashamed or like a failure. Write down the harsh voice in your head - what exactly did it say about you? Now rewrite that same situation from the perspective of someone who cares about you. What would they say about the same facts?
Consider:
- •Notice whose voice the harsh criticism actually sounds like - a parent, teacher, boss, or society
- •Distinguish between what actually happened (facts) and what it means about your worth (interpretation)
- •Consider whether you'd speak to a friend the way you speak to yourself
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when you chose to hide or quit rather than face potential judgment. What were you really afraid people would think, and how much power did you give their opinions over your life?
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