The Internal Burden of Judge Jackson

Thoughts on Judge Jackson are everywhere. Like many I've been impressed by her poise and grace, and like certain others I realize her posture of strength has required her to "swallow" the justifiable anger/rage/disgust she might have been feeling at her confirmation.

I think the "internal burden" that results from "swallowing" as opposed to expressing is not light - and tends to resist confinement over time. This is the stress and rage that can erupt as physical and mental illness if not adequately addressed.

I raise the issue and consequences of carrying an “internal burden” to make two suggestions, and to make them to women who seek to act with personal power.

The first is to make choices one can own completely – and so remain in one’s agency despite circumstances. And the second is to understand that even right decisions can have negative effects that must be accounted for and addressed.

Let me just add a few thoughts about each suggestion. What does it mean to “own a choice completely?” It means you’ve considered and “made peace” with the elements and consequences of your choices so that you can stand with your choices regardless of circumstance. Do you know how to take “right actions,” actions in keeping with your most authentic self and what you truly and deeply desire? If so, this is how you make choices you can fully own.

And lastly, even “right choices” can have negative fallout. This is because the world and circumstances won’t always align with what’s right for who you are. In this case, are you able to surround your decisions with the support structure you need, and do you have a range and depth of support to call upon? If so, this is how you neutralize the negative consequences of your right choices.

The prescriptions are simple, if you can do them.?