Facing Denial: Holly Parker's Guide to Compassion and Reality
We are capable of great love, caring and giving, but we're also adept at turning down the dial on pervasive challenges, including others' suffering.
Have you ever wondered why we sometimes ignore uncomfortable truths? In this thought-provoking episode of Recovery Road, William Moyers chats with Holly Parker, the insightful author of 'When Reality Bites: How Denial Helps and What to Do When It Hurts'. Parker sheds light on how denial can serve as a temporary coping mechanism during crises, but also warns of its potential to trap us in harmful patterns.
Through relatable examples, she explains how to identify when denial is no longer serving us and offers practical steps to shift towards compassion. You'll hear about how tuning out the world's suffering or environmental issues can be a natural response, but Parker introduces mindfulness techniques to help us stay connected and open-hearted. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that embracing compassion over denial can lead to personal growth and a more empathetic life.
Whether you're on your recovery journey or supporting someone who is, Parker's wisdom provides valuable insights into navigating life's challenges with kindness and awareness.