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What Exactly is Gaslighting and Are You a Victim?
Gaslighting is a term that has gained attention in recent years, especially in discussions surrounding toxic relationships and psychological manipulation. The term “gaslighting” originates from the play and film “Gaslight,” where a husband manipulates his wife into questioning her own reality. The concept was further popularized by the 1944 film adaptation starring Ingrid Bergman. The term “gaslighting” was coined to describe a form of psychological manipulation where the perpetrator seeks to sow seeds of doubt in the victim, making them question their own perceptions and sanity. It is a tactic often used by abusive individuals to gain control and power over others by undermining their confidence and sense of reality.…
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The Enlightened Couple
Thousands of years ago, the Buddhist Zen Master Yunmen was asked, “What is enlightenment?”. Yunmen’s reply was simple: “An appropriate response.” Seems easy enough, right? How does a couple live an enlightened relationship? Is it possible that if we simply have an appropriate response, that all of our arguments and relational angst will wash away? Maybe. If you’re like me, though, you might be taking note that you are only nominally familiar with Zen Buddhist teachings, though they seem peaceful and wonderful. And you certainly are feeling a little far from enlightened, and definitely a little less than polished when it comes to finding the appropriate response. What is an…
