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Jacky Smith's avatar

I find myself dipping towards depression in these difficult times, which I'm sure is a common experience.

But then I remember that most of what I see around me is probably a prediction created by my brain based on what I happen to be noticing, possibly bearing only a passing resemblance to what's actually going on. And that applies to my feelings & emotions as well: they are as real as anything else in the moment, but maybe not permanent or anything like as solid & unavoidable as they seem. Personally, I find that comforting rather than threatening - but not everyone is so lucky.

As to the conflict between feminism & what you called "madreality" in that scenario: we all need to take responsibility for protecting the vulnerable, and in that situation, that was both sides of the interaction.

There are so many situations where that is true at the moment, and the culture wars are making it particularly difficult to apply a nuanced perspective. Let's hope we can progress past that soon.

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Steve Thorp's avatar

This piece really captures the layering of complexity, Julia, that 'we' seldom take notice of! There's so much in this. I think it's why it's so hard to have conversations for many. There's also something about the criss-crossing of vulnerability and the silos people feel they have to erect in order to survive. And sometimes they're right!

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