Secret Shame

Yesterday ended on a very heavy topic. Shame.

We watched this very brief video and then began discussing the difference between shame and guilt. Then we went into the book…

The part that resonated with me was about secret shame. Here’s a photo of the section in the book. Read the whole paragraph. I had to read it 5+ times before it really sank in.

I think all of this relates to me, but I’m not sure. I want to process it. There’s a lot to unpack though, as is usual with therapy. But, I think it’s why I blocked out my childhood traumas. It’s just a hunch though, I need to work with a professional before I can be certain.

In my dreams, just before waking up I dreamed that I was sprayed by a skunk and that some woman was insisting that I clean up her dirty and oily carpet.

In general, getting sprayed by a skunk in a dream might symbolize a situation in your waking life that is unpleasant or “stinky.” It could represent encountering something or someone negative, potentially leading to feelings of frustration or discomfort. Cleaning up someone else’s mess in a dream could suggest that you are dealing with problems or responsibilities that don’t belong to you, or you may be taking on burdens that others should handle themselves.

Symbols like dirt and oil can carry various meanings depending on cultural, personal, and contextual factors. Here are some general interpretations, but keep in mind that individual experiences and beliefs may influence the symbolism differently:

1. Dirt:

• Uncleanliness or impurity: Dirt is often associated with things that are unclean or impure. In dreams, it might reflect feelings of guilt, shame, or a need for purification.
• Grounding and connection to nature: On a positive note, dirt is also symbolic of the earth, grounding, and connection to nature. It can represent a need to stay connected with your roots or the fundamental aspects of life.

1. Oil:

• Wealth and abundance: Historically, oil has been associated with wealth and prosperity. In a positive context, dreaming of oil could symbolize abundance, success, or financial gain.
• Contamination or pollution: On the negative side, oil can be associated with pollution and environmental degradation. Dreaming of oil might reflect concerns about pollution, environmental issues, or a sense of contamination in your life.
• Smoothness or lubrication: In a mechanical or functional context, oil serves as a lubricant to reduce friction. In dreams, this might symbolize a need for smoother relationships or situations.

It’s crucial to consider the specific context of the dream, your feelings during the dream, and your personal associations with dirt and oil. Dreams are highly subjective, and their interpretations can vary widely. If you find that certain symbols in your dreams recur or evoke strong emotions, it may be helpful to explore those patterns with a focus on your own experiences and feelings.

Very interesting.