Questions from Readers:
I have questions about people who have experienced sexual violence living their lives with a smile. Don’t you think it’s strange that others decide how someone should suffer? It seems that too many people assume that those who have experienced sexual violence, PTSD, or panic disorders cannot smile or work brightly. I believe that when survivors regain
their vitality and engage in activities, it should be seen as a testament to their resilience and not as something to be criticized. Some individuals share their experiences in the media, striving to rebuild their lives. Isn’t it wrong to accuse them of “using their victimhood for publicity” or “being a burden to other victims”? Moreover, PTSD, Ménière’s disease, and panic disorders manifest differently in each individual, and the timing of recovery varies as well. It is ignorant to label someone’s happiness as a lie or to assume their recovery is too convenient. I think it’s far more frightening to consider that moving toward recovery could be viewed as a “nuisance.” Raising one’s voice about these issues takes immense courage, and it’s truly disheartening to see subsequent actions and lifestyles being criticized. The trend of labeling allegations of sexual violence as a “cancel culture” is something I find deeply troubling. Do you think such criticism is justified? I believe this trend poses a much bigger problem.
On Sexual Violence and Life Afterward
Recently, there has been criticism directed at survivors of sexual violence who live their lives with a smile. I want to delve deeper into this issue. Personally, I work part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office, where I interact with a variety of people and hear stories of those carrying different pasts. One day, a woman came in for a consultation and shared her experience of sexual violence and how she managed to recover and regain her smile. Her story was captivating, and I was moved by her strength in overcoming her suffering.
The Freedom to Live
Many people assume that “someone who is truly suffering cannot smile,” which I think is a gross misunderstanding. Our suffering and recovery processes are unique to each individual. For some, smiling may be a way to reclaim themselves, while for others, it might be the opposite. I, too, once felt that I had to be serious all the time, but I realized that smiling can be one way to protect myself.
Criticism and Its Impact
Moreover, it’s truly unfortunate to see criticism directed at those who share their experiences. When she appears in the media to tell her story, she can inspire many others. It’s dismissive to accuse her of “using her victimhood for publicity.” Shouldn’t the effort to rebuild one’s life be celebrated?
In Conclusion
Not just in cases of sexual violence, but in any form of suffering, it should not be determined by others. Everyone has the right to choose their own way of living. We need to recognize how frightening it is when criticism seeks to strip away that freedom. What do you think? I encourage you to share your own experiences and thoughts in the comments. I hope we can deepen our understanding by openly discussing this topic.
