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Abuse Quote by Bessel A. van der Kolk

“As long as you keep secrets and suppress information, you are fundamentally at war with yourself…The critical issue is allowing yourself to know what you know. That takes an enormous amount of courage.” quote by Bessel A. van der Kolk
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““As long as you keep secrets and suppress information, you are fundamentally at war with yourself…The critical issue is allowing yourself to know what you know. That takes an enormous amount of courage.””

Bessel A. van der Kolk

About This Quote

Source Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel A. van der Kolk, 2014

Suppressing truth creates internal conflict; acknowledging what we know requires great bravery.

In simple terms: Hiding truth fuels inner war; honesty needs courage.

Key Takeaway

Face your truths, even when painful.

Themes

psychology self-awareness courage

Mood

reflective determined

Type

advice motivational

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • personal growth
  • conflict resolution
  • self-reflection

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance self-knowledge

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truth are you avoiding?
  • How can you safely confront it?
A Different Perspective

Courage may be hindered by fear of consequences.

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