Healing and Preventing Molestation and Dealing with Violators
MyLife: Chassidus Applied Episode 55
How do we address the unspeakable violation of a child or adult, especially by someone trusted or in a position of authority?
Intimacy is the most vulnerable place in the human psyche. When violated it is not like a brawl with a bully, which leaves temporary bruises, but one that remains etched in the psyche and memory, leaving deep wounds, many which can haunt one for the rest of his/her life. What is the Chassidic approach to the recovery process for victims of sexual abuse? And how should we deal with predators? Is it permitted to embarrass a person who commits such a sin for the pain and damage they caused another? Going forward, how can we best prevent future violations?
In this week’s episode, Rabbi Jacobson will also address: How should we address chutzpah and instill mentchlichkeit in our children? Are the schools responsible for teaching manners and values of respect, or does that come from the home? According to Chassidus, how should we look at evil around us? How do we explain evil and terrorism to our children? Can an emotionally neglected person nurture others? How can victims of emotional neglect strengthen themselves, and be emotionally strong for their loved ones?
This hour-long dose of insights is meant to inform, inspire and empower us by applying the teachings of Chassidus to help us face practical and emotional challenges and difficulties in our personal lives and relationships. To have your question addressed, please submit it at www.meaningfullife.com/mylifelive.
The topics in this Sunday’s hour-long broadcast will include:
· Chassidus Applied to Chof Beis Shvat & Mishpatim/Shekalim
· Chinuch follow up: Where’s the mentchlichkeit?
· How do we deal with chutzpah?
· Healing from molestation and dealing with violators
· Can we embarrass abusers?
· Can an emotionally neglected person nurture others?
· How should we look at evil around us?
· How do we explain evil and terrorism to our children?
MyLife: Chassidus Applied addresses questions that many people are afraid to ask and others are afraid to answer. When asked about the sensitive topics he has been addressing, Rabbi Simon Jacobson commented, “I understand that the stakes are high, but the silence and lack of clarity on matters plaguing the community can no longer go unaddressed. The stakes of not providing answers are even higher.”
The on-going series has provoked a significant reaction from the community, with thousands of people viewing each live broadcast and hundreds of questions pouring in. At the root of every question and personal challenge tackled by the series is the overarching question: Does Judaism have the answers to my personal dilemmas?
In inimitable “Jacobson-fashion”, the broadcast answers people’s questions in simple, clear language while being heavily sourced. Each episode is jam-packed with eye-opening advice from the Rebbeim, gleaned from uncovering surprising gems in their letters, sichos and maamorim that address our personal issues with disarming relevance. Simultaneously, Rabbi Jacobson is able to crystallize a concept quickly, succinctly, and poignantly for any level of listener.
All episodes are immediately available for viewing in the MLC’s archive and can be downloaded as MP3’s for listening on the go.
Questions may be submitted anonymously at www.meaningfullife.com/mylifelive.
Live Video:
Thank you so much for comments! If only more people were like you!
Thank you rabbi Jacobson for your time and advice! It is very much appreciated !
We live in a free country and col is truly wonderful for affording us all a free forum upon which we can share and exchange ideas. But this should bring out the best in people, not the opposite. To naysayer #1: Does Rabbi Jacobson owe you anything? Do you pay him for his time, his advice? Has it even entered your mind how much time, effort, and energy are put into each episode? Please, don’t embarrass yourself by exposing how selfish you are. Learn to be grateful for the good in your life, and the kindnesses shared with you. Thank… Read more »
Based on past experience I can tell you that Rabbi Jacobson will certainly continue this discussion next week, and as I have seen time and again, will not disappoint.
Excellent stuff on the painful issue of molestation. Cant wait to hear the follow-up next week.
The intro about 22 Shevat was very poignant, True perspective on the Rebbetzin. Please don’t stop Rabbi Jacobson. This is absolutely addictive — of the healthy sort.
you give an amazing episode once again!
He only spends 10 minutes on a topic that everyone came here for.?! But still says he is not avoiding the question. How bizarre, I have the utmost respect, but do t beat around the bush and then run out of time.