Journal December 2025 Release - Flipbook - Page 33
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Joanna: I am still having a problem with bingeing (and sometimes also vomiting)
some nights after sleeping tablet. In the past SS would convince me that
this is a disaster. That I must have perfect eating behaviour all the time.
David: THAT IS PRETTY TYPICAL FROM WHAT I HAVE BEEN TOLD OVER THE PAST
15 YEARS. AS A 12-YEAR-OLD BOY, BRETT, ONCE TOLD ME- ANOREXIA AND
PERFECTION ARE LIKE A MARRIED COUPLE! WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT
THAT?
Joanna: One little imperfection in my healthy eating, and I would be doomed to
judgment, punishment, panic, despair... a spiral into total starvation or a
bulimic disaster.
David: HAVE I EVER TOLD YOU ABOUT THE DIPLOMA IN IMPURFECTION?
Joanna: But here and now: I am choosing to view this problem eating differently. I
choose to hold onto my sanity.
David: JOANNA, YOUR OWN CHOICES ARE REFLECTED IN EVERYTHING YOU SAY IN
THESE DOCUMENTS!!!! THIS IS SURELY A RED-LETTER DAY! MIGHT THESE
CHOICES QUALIFY AS IF IT IS A 'PLANNED RETREAT'??????
Joanna: It might be an unhealthy and very ineffective way of dealing with my
fears/doubts/depression and anxiety, but I must find ways to outsmart SS
who promises a wonderful magic solution). But at the same time, I know if I
choose it, SS wants to condemn me into tragic captivity. I am actively
dealing with the problem by looking at it as a symptom that gives
information about what isn't working in my life right now: I am literally
"bingeing on life.” So, I reckon I am becoming smarter in the process.
David: I LOVE THAT EXPRESSION!!!
Joanna: I am trying to take part in too much too fast too perfectly. I am now
choosing to scale down on quality and quantity of all my participations
except having fun and joy. The bingeing also indicates a need for more
"sweetness" in my life.
An Apprenticeship in Extremis
Journal of Contemporary Narrative Therapy, December 2025 Release, p. 5-44.
www.journalnft.com
