Everything casts a shadow under the sun. It traces the shape of whatever blocks the light. Sure, the shadow’s tied to its object, but it’s also something else entirely.
This isn’t just about, say, a tree—it’s about the psyche. Jung called the shadow the hidden part of a man’s soul, the piece his conscious self won’t face. But, ha-ha, he can’t escape it either.
The easy way out? Deny it: “That shadow’s not mine!” Since a shadow needs an object, he points fast: “It belongs to that guy!” The important thing is to accuse first; let him justify himself later.
Relief washes over, like dumping a heavy pack on someone else’s back. A man without a shadow feels divine—an angel, maybe an archangel, commander of heaven’s army.
That fits, because blaming others for his shadow is just the start. Now he can hunt those who carry his rejected traits, fight them, wipe them out. The witch hunts and burning of heretics, which became widespread in the Middle Ages, remain popular to this day. Scapegoats change; the game doesn’t.
Punish the symbol of evil—better yet, destroy it—and it feels like the problem’s gone. An illusion of cleansing and control sets in. The soul’s tension eases. He sleeps soundly.
Not for long. The shadow never left. Time to find a new victim. But of course, this one will be called: “Monster! Beast! Demon!”So the inquisitor’s life rolls on—hunts, trials, executions.
Beyond the drama and sorrow, it’s dull. Every act is scripted, predictable. No meaning. No freedom. Sophisticated accusations and tortures aren’t exactly art.
Worst of all, there’s no growth, no real life.
Here’s the thing: shadow traits are like compost. Dirty, foul, repulsive—but vital for enriching soil, making it fertile. Without it, rich earth turns to barren sand and stone. Toss in seeds, pour on water—it’s all for nothing.
For a soul to rise high and bear fruit, its roots must feed on filth, rot, and muck. One's greatest task? Turn flaws into strengths, curse into a gift, dung into a rose.
Sincerely yours,
-Alexander
About me:
As a business therapist, I help tech founders quickly solve dilemmas at the intersection of business and personality, and boost company value as a result.
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