This is truly a really interesting read that offers some extremely eye-opening and powerful insights into shame, guilt, and the developmental stages. It delves deep into these complex emotions and the various stages of growth, providing valuable perspectives that can enhance our understanding.

However, there were some parts that I had to skim through. This was because I simply wasn't ready to engage in any of the exercises mentioned. Maybe at a later time, when I feel more prepared and open, I will come back and give those exercises a try.

Overall, despite skimming through certain sections, the article still managed to capture my attention and leave a lasting impression. It has made me think more deeply about these emotions and how they impact our lives. I would highly recommend this read to anyone interested in exploring the inner workings of the human psyche.

I know precisely what I truly desire for Christmas. I long for the return of my childhood.

It may seem nonsensical, but when has Christmas ever been about making perfect sense anyway?

As the saying goes, children, in contrast to concentration camp inmates, are faced with a tormentor they love.

School often rewards conformity and rote memorization rather than fostering creativity and uniqueness. Many of us who adapted to become straight-A students never truly developed a genuine sense of competence. I dedicated a significant portion of my life attempting to heal the wound within my being through performing and doing. However, no matter how many straight-A's I achieved, it did nothing to mend the spiritual wound. Deep down, my wounded inner child still felt lonely and inadequate.

If your parents decline to take responsibility for their own wounded inner child, it is essential to remember that your primary obligation is to your own life. You did not enter this world to take care of your parents.

Discipline can be regarded as a set of techniques designed to alleviate life's inevitable pain.

Intimacy can only function effectively if each partner assumes responsibility for his or her own vulnerable inner child.

Interesting!

Do you know that 90% of people read? This is an amazing fact. Reading has always been a popular activity that allows us to explore different worlds, gain knowledge, and expand our imagination.

There are so many interesting books out there waiting to be discovered. Whether it's a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking non-fiction piece, there is something for everyone. Reading can transport us to far-off places, introduce us to new cultures, and make us feel a whole range of emotions.

Not only is reading enjoyable, but it also has numerous benefits. It can improve our vocabulary, enhance our writing skills, and increase our general knowledge. It can also reduce stress and improve our mental well-being. So, if you haven't picked up a book in a while, why not give it a try? You might be surprised at how interesting and rewarding it can be.

I was a little distraught when reading the first chapter of this book.

The way things were phrased made me feel not very empowered.

Granted, the subject matter might probably warrant that.

The first chapter explains the types of "inner child" issues people have.

There's a quiz at the end of the first chapter that tells you if the book is right for you or not.

I do appreciate that the book has its own filtering mechanism in the first chapter to tell you whether to read the rest or not.

I ended up being filtered out.

If someone picks up this book, reads the first chapter, and it resonates with them, I imagine it would be a very good book.

This is because I've read others by him and like his writing style.

Overall, although the first chapter didn't work for me, it might be a great resource for those who find themselves identified with the content presented in it.

It's interesting how a book can have such a specific filtering system right from the start, which helps readers determine if it's worth delving further into.

Maybe for some, this book could be a life-changing read, while for others like me, it might not be the right fit.

But that's the beauty of literature, there's something for everyone.

I didn't finish reading the article

because it appeared that the author's intention was to present shocking tales of trauma rather than assist readers in dealing with their own traumas.

Some of the stories he shared were completely unnecessary and truly disgusted me.

It felt as if he was more interested in exploiting the emotions of the readers rather than providing any meaningful support or guidance.

Trauma is a sensitive and personal issue, and it should be approached with care and respect.

Instead of bombarding readers with graphic and disturbing accounts, the author could have focused on offering practical strategies and resources for healing.

This would have been a much more valuable and helpful approach.

As it stands, I was left with a negative impression of the article and the author.

I hope that in the future, writers will be more mindful of the impact their words can have on readers and will strive to provide content that is both informative and empathetic.

This is an interesting book. It definitely gave me something and pushed me further.

However, it's not a complete life changer. The religious part in it didn't really interest me much.

But if you are interested in self-development and dealing with certain things within yourself, then I definitely recommend reading it.

It might offer you some valuable insights and perspectives that could help you in your personal growth journey.

Even though the religious aspect wasn't to my taste, the overall content of the book still has its merits and can be beneficial for those who are seeking self-improvement.

So, if you're in that category, don't hesitate to give it a try.

DNF.

This is the kind of book that you make a conscious effort to pick up with the intention of self-improvement. I can envision that at the time of its writing, this book might have been among the best in its genre. However, by now, there surely must be better and more contemporary books on this very topic. There is an excessive amount of reference to "science" that has since been disproven, which makes it difficult for my analytical mind to progress further within the pages of this book. (Science both within his specific field and outside of it - from the mentions of "being into butt stuff" to the assertion that only humans are capable of laughter). He also appears to draw from numerous other sources that were largely speculative (such as the stages of life). His explanations regarding how trauma can impact an individual felt outdated and not necessarily relevant to various types of trauma. Anytime he delved into physical abuse or alcoholism, his writing seemed to come alive, but the discussion of any other forms of abuse felt forced and unclear, as if he didn't truly understand what he was writing about. Once I reached the chapter about "elves," I realized that I simply couldn't force myself to endure this writing any longer.

I am still deeply engrossed in this book. However, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on how incredibly timeless the advice within it truly is, especially in this era dominated by technology.

I had been in a state of seeking assistance on how to break free from the stagnation in my life. Additionally, I was grappling with the challenge of uncovering the correct answers within myself regarding a diverse range of topics.

Thus far, this book has proven to be immensely helpful to me in numerous ways. Although I am filled with dread at the thought of finishing this book, paradoxically, I am eagerly anticipating seeing how this profoundly important book concludes.

If you are a parent, a child, a prospective parent, or simply a human being, this book is an absolute must-read. It has the potential to offer valuable insights and guidance that can positively impact your life.

This is a very complete and in-depth work that focuses on recognizing, reflecting, and reclaiming our wounds through exercises and meditations.

It is a highly meaningful piece of research and practical work related to the subconscious and the triggers that may emerge in our adult-child daily life. It lies at the intersection of philosophy and psychology.

I would implement it in support groups. The reason is that as individual work, it can sometimes become overwhelming. This is because it brings up discomfort and memories that might, to some extent, trigger emotional reactions.

By engaging in this work within a support group, individuals can receive the necessary encouragement, understanding, and feedback from others. The group can provide a safe and nurturing environment where participants can share their experiences, feelings, and insights.

This collaborative approach can enhance the effectiveness of the work and help individuals better process their emotions and memories. It can also foster a sense of community and connection, which is beneficial for overall well-being.

Overall, this work has the potential to bring about significant personal growth and transformation when implemented in the right context.

I absolutely loved this one! It was truly very insightful and came with a plethora of exercises to work through.

What I really enjoyed was how the author delved into his own inner child. It was so fascinating to read about his experiences and how they related to the overall theme of the book.

Since reading this book, I can already notice a significant change in the way I take care of myself. I am more in tune with my emotions and needs, and I am making a conscious effort to be kinder and more nurturing towards myself.

This book has truly been a game-changer for me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and improve their self-care routine.

A personal triumph it is to have begun, to have endured through the arduous tasks set forth throughout this text and to have ultimately completed it. I am proud of myself - words that I have struggled to utter in the past.

This book is something that reaps benefits from being read in a group, with a reading partner, or under the guidance of a therapist. In my situation, it was a combination of the above.

It took me nearly five years to read this book... to undertake the hard work. It demands time and patience with oneself to truly heal, to not impose time limits or unreasonable expectations... to engage in the grief work and to rebuild. I am worthy of the effort it took to confront the truth and to discover ways to heal.

Also, the best quote included by Bradshaw from another source - Nietzsche, “I could only believe in a god who dances.”

I cannot think of a person who would not benefit from reading this book or starting this journey.

It will be a long, long road for some, but this is life-changing.

Learning about the inner child was kind of a slap on the face, because I felt that after all these years, I still don't know most of what makes me Me! How could that be!

You might have gone through a normal, balanced, and happy childhood, like I did (Thank God), but you will still be surprised by all the things you will learn about yourself when you interpret your actions and childhood memories and connect the dots.

Don't expect a sudden change in thoughts, feelings, or behavior when you are done with this book. This journey is a way of life and this book can be considered as the first step. You owe it to yourself ❤️, and the family you might create in the future.

5 stars are not enough. This book has truly opened my eyes and made me realize that there is so much more to discover about myself. It has given me the courage to face my past and work towards a better future. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for self-growth and a deeper understanding of themselves.