What strikes me most about the latest sex scandals is the widespread shock and righteous indignation that such hurtful sexual predation ever manifests itself. This is a reaction I cannot share on two major counts. Firstly, during my lifetime my fantasies and dreams have not always carefully colored within the [respectable] lines. There was a popular song that included the words “You can’t go to jail for what you’re thinking.” (A song that coincidentally arrived with advent of my own puberty—I remember it well! [STANDING ON THE CORNER by The Four Lads 1956]). I can assure you that if my thoughts could land me in jail, I’d be a “throw-away-the-key lifer.” Why am I so willing to share this admission? Because a voice deep within me says I am not alone…there was once an individual 853 years ago that had the same predilections. Thus, rest assured from a purely historical perspective, I’m not alone.
Secondly, I have come to avoid boastful oaths that “I would NEVER do that!” (fill in the blank). Sometimes I think the most astounding thing about me (and that guy 853 years ago) is our ability to rationalize anything—especially when what I take to be my short-term pressing needs conflict with the rights and best interest of others.
With this in mind, it seems to me that a “holier-than-thou” stance is achievable only when I block out my own mental landscape. This does not for a moment mean I excuse sexual predation. But forgiveness is a prerogative of the victims and their families, certainly not of me.
=======================
.
---------------------------------------
Print Page
The Agonies and Ecstasies that daily keep our brains buzzing and hearts compassionate
Click Map for Details
