Anger and fear Quote by Debby Irving
““If there’s a place for tolerance in racial healing, perhaps it has to do with tolerating my own feelings of discomfort that arise when a person, of any color, expresses emotion not welcome in the culture of niceness. It also has to do with tolerating my own feelings of shame, humiliation, regret, anger, and fear so I can engage, not run. For me, tolerance is not about others, it’s about accepting my own uncomfortable emotions as I adjust to a changing view of myself as imperfect and vulnerable. As human.””
About This Quote
Accepting personal uncomfortable emotions is essential for genuine racial healing and self‑growth.
In simple terms: Tolerate your own discomfort to heal and grow.
Embrace discomfort, engage, and evolve.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- diversity training
- personal reflection
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you sit with discomfort without withdrawing?
- What does vulnerability teach you about yourself?
Ignoring discomfort stalls healing and may reinforce avoidance.