Different people Quote by Peggy Orenstein
““At the same time, she [Charis Denison] offered this to an eleventh-grader whose friend was having sex with many different people. "Your response doesn't have to be 'That's gross' of 'That's bad.' You can ask, 'How did that feel to you? What does it bring you? How does it serve you?' Approached in the right way, that can be a great conversation. Then, if you really care about that person, your job is to be their human shield from shame.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Girls & Sex, Peggy Orenstein, 2015
Encourage empathetic dialogue about sexual experiences instead of judgment, fostering understanding and support.
In simple terms: Ask about feelings and purpose rather than criticize.
Listen without shame, offer support.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- teen counseling
- friendship advice
- sexual education
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice non‑judgmental listening?
- What questions open space for honest sharing?
May be hard to avoid personal bias or discomfort.