I experience that too, often. Something occurs in an interaction that, to some people, would be perceived as small, innocuous, forgivable. Yet, I am burning with shame, feel I must leave and not return, hide myself. I hid myself so well that I never married, never had kids. Brown stated that you cannot be compassionate toward others if you cannot be compassionate toward yourself. I disagree. I have a masters in social work. I feel deeply touched by the pain I read about at this website. I just cannot extend it to myself, forgive myself laying waste my life.

Brown also stated that you cannot numb painful emotions without numbing joy. Conversely, I have cried rivers, but cannot feel joy. Still, she made many important points. Thanks for the youtube link.