Somewhere Out There

Sometimes I just want to be accepted.

To be considered special and precious.

Just like everyone else.

Straight from the Heart

Dear Martha Beck,

My friend introduced me to you. She's an avid fan after loyally following your appearances on Oprah, and now she subscribes to Oprah's O magazine just so she can read up on your columns. In her effort to enlighten me, I have been made aware of my emotional retardedness (this is an understatement).

This means that I have problems expressing and showing emotions particularly sadness and vulnerability. I have been aware of it, I just didn't realize it would also impact others around me. My Great Wall of Emotional Emptiness needs to be knocked down.

After careful and deep reflection of myself, I agree that my friend is spot on about me. It takes a lot of courage and the lowering of my pride to admit this.

The problem is I do not know how.

I've been this way since I can remember (elementary and high school?).

There is no prejudice towards anyone. Everyone meets the Wall. No exceptions.

I have been reading a few of your articles but couldn't find one that fits this particular area. I do feel that I need to get in touch with my emotional side, since i depend heavily on my rational capacities.

The consequences of breaking down the Wall is decades of emotional pain carefully managed rationally, which may release a flood gate of emotion. Think of it as an emotional tsunami.

How do you suppose I prepare for this?

You must be gentle with me. Frank, but gentle.

I read your article on Emo-Do i.e. being a Master of Emotion. Obviously I am still a white belt at Emo-Do, but I am serious at being a black belt.

Let me know.

L,
Emotionally Retarded
Bangi
Malaysia

Links: www.marthabeck.com and www.oprah.com/contributor/martha-beck