Action Quote by Mary McCarthy
“When you have committed an action that you cannot bear to think about, that causes you to writhe in retrospect, do not seek to evade the memory: make yourself relive it, confront it repeatedly over and over, till finally, you will discover, through sheer repetition it loses its power to pain you. It works, I guarantee you, this sure-fire guilt-eradicator, like a homeopathic medicine - like in small doses applied to like. It works, but I am not sure that it is a good thing.”
About This Quote
Repeatedly confronting painful memories reduces their emotional sting, similar to exposure therapy, though it may have drawbacks.
In simple terms: Facing painful memories repeatedly lessens their impact.
Key Takeaway
Confront and to diminish guilt.
Themes
guilt
memory
exposure therapy
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
therapeutic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal reflection
- trauma processing
- self‑care
Key Concepts
psychology
healing
repetition
Questions to Reflect On
- Are you ready for repeated confrontation?
- What limits might this method have?
A Different Perspective
Repeated exposure may reinforce trauma if not managed carefully.
![“She considered [her] life, which had not been a life but only a sort of greeting, a Hello There.” quote by Mary McCarthy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/354/mary-mccarthy-2691_life_she-considered-her-life-which-had-not-be_53594.jpg)
