My friend recommended the book “The Choice” by Dr. Edith Eva Eger, a Holocaust survivor who was sent to Auschwitz at the age of 16. Now in her 93rd year, she continues to be an inspiration to all of those she encounters. Here are a few excerpts from her book that I resonated with:
“My own search for freedom and my years of experience as a licensed clinical psychologist have taught me that suffering is universal. But victimhood is optional. There is a difference between victimization and victimhood. We are all likely to be victimized in some way in the course of our lives. At some point we will suffer some kind of affliction over which we have little or no control. This is life. And this is victimization. It comes from the outside. – In contrast, victimhood comes from the inside. We become victims not because of what happens to us be when we choose to hold on to our victimization.”
“No one heals in a straight line.”
“Bela,” I whisper, “I think I’ve come far enough. I want to go home.” “You’ve been afraid before,” he says. “Welcome it, welcome it.” Bela is reminding me of what I believe too: This is the work of healing. You deny what hurts, what you fear. You avoid it all costs. Then you find a way to welcome and embrace what you’re most afraid of. And then you can finally let it go.”
If you are looking for a book to read, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed. 🙂
Like this post? Consider subscribing!
Photo credit: Me!