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Rafi Simonton's avatar

I sure relate to that voice of your nasty little nag. It's taken decades for me to learn to say "shut up!" (Well, more like f--- off.) I remind myself I'd be appalled if I heard a person address another like that.

Yet I don't want to totally get rid of it, either. It's part of me; I'm big enough and way more than old enough to hold it. It helps to externalize these things--as you do--to see or hear them clearly.

Besides, it's part of what made me who I am. Being bullied, being the target of cruel comments (even your own) certainly can be used to develop a deep sense of compassion.

PS--the avatar is my own artwork. One of the things, despite the internal critics, I know I do well.

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David Ruderman's avatar

Be nice to yourself. As you have literally illustrated, you are your own worst enemy - as are we all our own. Perhaps you won't even have an enemy if you erase the dude on the right above... or at least don't give him the mic or a nice seat at the table. And let the dog chase him away.

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