There are, apparently, persons who are deeply afraid of…
““There are, apparently, persons who are deeply afraid of their own emotions, particularly the painful ones. Grief, regret, sadness. Sadness especially, perhaps. Dolores describes these persons as afraid of obliteration, emotional engulfment. As if something truly and thoroughly felt would have no end or bottom. Would become infinite and engulf them. I am saying that such persons usually have a very fragile sense of themselves as persons. As existing at all””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People fearing deep emotions may view them as endless and overwhelming, revealing a fragile self‑concept.
In simple terms: Fear of strong feelings can weaken self‑identity.
Key Takeaway
Accept and process emotions safely.
Themes
emotional health
self‑esteem
vulnerability
psychology
identity
Mood
introspective
supportive
Type
psychological
self‑help
When to use this quote
- therapy
- personal journaling
- support groups
Key Concepts
emotional avoidance
self‑fragmentation
existential fear
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we safely explore painful feelings?
- What practices strengthen self‑identity amid emotional turbulence?
A Different Perspective
Emotions can feel infinite and scary.