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true story<br />
We talked about how I never had a chance to<br />
eulogise my parents, my jealousy about never<br />
having a normal childhood, the pain of losing<br />
my family, and how the fallout from the estate<br />
battle left the good memories tarnished.<br />
My therapist helped me open up and face<br />
problems I didn’t know I had. In turn, I began<br />
to embrace vulnerability; I felt empowered<br />
each time I let my guard down. I found the<br />
strength to take the upper hand with my eating<br />
disorder, to cope with the pain I buried away. I<br />
reconnected with the parts of me I always loved.<br />
I remembered who I was before life’s vicious<br />
attacks commenced.<br />
I’ve always enjoyed writing, and found this as<br />
my outlet to speak my truths. Through writing,<br />
I learned that ‘the man of the house’ can show<br />
vulnerability. That does not equal weakness<br />
but, instead, it shows love for himself and those<br />
around him. I can be honest with myself now,<br />
with my husband and with my friends. I broke<br />
free from the chains of my eating disorder, my<br />
insecurities, and the hurtful memories.<br />
Vulnerability is defined as the state of being<br />
exposed to the possibility of being attacked or<br />
harmed, either physically or emotionally. All<br />
along, I was the one doing the attacking and<br />
harm to myself by not allowing myself to share<br />
my struggles. I am now on a mission to help<br />
others live their best lives, just like I am finally<br />
doing after two decades of inner hell.<br />
OUR EXPERT SAYS<br />
Jason’s inspirational story provides insight into<br />
how difficult life events at an early age<br />
can have a damaging impacting our self-esteem.<br />
The trauma Jason experienced was evidently<br />
very challenging, and he used alcohol to cope.<br />
However, over time, with a supportive husband<br />
and access to therapy, Jason was able to<br />
work through his past and challenge the<br />
stigma of what it means be a man.<br />
Jason is living proof that men<br />
can be vulnerable, and this is a<br />
true sign of strength.<br />
Rav Sekhon | BA MA MBACP (Accred)<br />
Counsellor and psychotherapist<br />
<strong>happiful</strong>.com | September <strong>2021</strong> | 39