Question from a Reader:
What do you think about people who have experienced sexual violence living life with a smile? I feel it’s strange for others to decide how someone should suffer. It seems that many people assume that those who suffer from sexual violence, PTSD, or panic disorders cannot be cheerful or work brightly. However, I believe that when victims
regain their energy and actively engage in life, it’s a testament to their survival, and it shouldn’t be criticized. Some even publish photo books or appear in the media, but these actions are efforts to rebuild their lives, and no one has the right to accuse them of using their suffering for publicity or being a nuisance to other victims. Symptoms and recovery times for PTSD, Meniere’s disease, and panic disorders vary from person to person, so claiming someone is lying just because they seem happy or that they are conveniently healed is ignorant. The mindset that moving toward recovery is a “nuisance” is far more frightening. It takes immense courage to speak up socially, yet it seems unreasonable for people’s subsequent actions or lives to be scrutinized and criticized. I find the trend of labeling sexual violence allegations as “cancel culture” very frightening. Do you believe these criticisms are truly justified? I think this prevailing attitude is the real issue.
The Relationship Between Sexual Violence and Smiling
I often reflect on people who have experienced sexual violence living with a smile. This issue is very delicate and comes with various perspectives. Particularly, I am often pained by the critical voices I see on social media. Many people cannot imagine what situations these individuals are in or what they are feeling. Judging without employing any imagination is extremely dangerous.
What Lies Behind the Smile
When I see someone who has suffered from sexual violence smiling, there are times when I question, “Aren’t they really suffering?” However, we must not forget that behind that smile lies immense effort and the struggle to overcome pain. A smile does not necessarily reflect one’s true feelings. In many cases, a smile is an expression of their determination to survive. In my own experience working at a judicial scrivener’s office and interacting with various individuals, I have witnessed many such experiences. One day, when a client smiled and said, “I’m doing my best,” I found it hard to believe those words genuinely. Yet, I felt a strong resolve in her eyes. Understanding the pain behind a smile is the first step toward deepening our understanding.
Societal Trends and Their Impact
Recently, there has been a trend to label sexual violence allegations as “cancel culture.” The impact of this trend is immeasurable. It is a sad reality that those who have the courage to speak out face further criticism and condemnation. They are trying to help other victims by raising their voices, yet their actions are met with backlash, which is absurd. I have also been asked by friends, “Why are you so cheerful?” In reality, I lead a stressful life, but I feel that smiling helps me cope even just a little. Therefore, I believe no one has the right to complain about how others choose to live.
I Want to Hear Everyone’s Opinions
I would love to hear your thoughts on this issue. I hope we can discuss how criticism should be approached and how victims should navigate their lives. I would be happy if you could share your experiences and thoughts in the comments. Together, let’s think and deepen our understanding.
