The Big G

What is guilt?

“And you may say to yourself, my god, what have I done. Same as it ever was, same as it ever was.” Talking Heads.

Yep, the big G is the same as it ever was. It’s our controlling device. If you feel guilty about something, you’re not going to do it again.... right? Well I’m no expert, but I certainly know from experience that I may feel guilt, but I usually still eat another donut again next week, and subsequently feel more guilt. It makes my stomach feel like I’ve been devouring grass all my life, when all I really want is a bite of that apple.

In case you’re too lazy to look it up yourself, no judgements here, this is the dictionary’s definition of guilt:

n. a bad feeling caused by knowing or thinking that you have done something bad or wrong.

v. make yourself (someone) feel guilty, especially in order to induce you (them) to do something.

To put it crudely: You feel guilty for eating that muffin, and then you feel ashamed of your fatness.

Now, we’re not talking legal or moral guilt during this project. We’re talking superficial guilt. Guilt that plays little part in our life other than making us feel sick and ashamed. If you don’t believe me, well first of all I don’t really care, and second of all, I did my research and found all these fun effects of guilt (or more accurately - shame) on our health. Take a looksie:

1. It is usually associated with things that have already happened or can’t be changed. (I ate the donut already, get over it)

2. It leaves us feeling immobilized, helpless and unworthy. (I need to go to the gym, no I need to get in shape first)

3. Causing emotional self-flagellation (I shouldn’t have eaten that donut, stupid fat ass).

4. And therefore dampening the immune system. (I don’t have the energy to work out today)

5. Ultimately destroying our emotional and physical energy. (Bed nice. Me stay in.)

So, can I say it? Please please please!

FUCK GUILT!

We need to get back to self-worth and empathy, and stop dwelling on the shame and guilt,

the guilty girls