19/07/2024
“Never Ashamed” by Wendy Haggerty, LMFT, CST, CST/S – inspired by “Simone Biles Rising”
Shame is one of the most painful and corrosive of human emotions. Being ashamed of yourself is tragic. It robs you of peace of mind, initiative to become your best self, and the comfort in your own skin. Shame is a very common response to trauma and significantly hinders the recovery process. It surfaces when foundational needs, such as trust, safety, and control, are unmet.
When my 16-year-old daughter suggested watching the Simone Biles documentary together (following her older sister Anna Haggerty having the opportunity to meet Simone and her family earlier this year), I was anticipating a story of an amazing athlete who helped pave the way for representation of women of color as the most decorated gymnast in the history of the Olympics and world championships. What I experienced was far beyond that.
Revealing a deeper dive into the darker side of being an elite athlete, “Simone Biles Rising” was the most inspirational story I have heard in a long while. As one of the very first athletes to openly talk about her mental well-being, Simone is changing the conversations around trauma and mental health. Releasing shame that may have inherently been attached to her story, this young woman did exactly what I would want all children (and adults) to do in her situation, she said “NO”. She normalized how important it is to focus on one’s mental health and not jeopardize health and well-being for the wants of others.
In honor of Simone Biles, thank you for being you. Simone Biles
This writing was inspired by a dream I had following watching “Simone Biles Rising” last night. In my imagination I had created a café named “Never Ashamed” where my family and I opened our doors to all those who needed a place to be safe and accepted. A place that loves openly and holds the space for the much-needed healing that is needed.
