"It turned into this dark thing where I was using my pain as a party favor."
In 2018, Aaron Stark's story of rebirth captivated the nation when his TED Talk entitled "I Was Almost A School Shooter" went viral.
Aaron details how his traumatic childhood introduced him to a life of self-destruction and low self-esteem. He joins Ben to share how the unconditional kindness of a friend ultimately gave him the courage to rebuild his life and become the man he always wanted to be. Now, as a mental health advocate, Aaron emphasizes the importance of extending compassion to those who need it.
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59:34
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59:34
A New Season Calls For A New Beginning
Although not everyone experiences trauma that drives significant change, many people undergo transformations and choose to redirect their lives for a new purpose. Ben describes the courage it takes to go through a rebirth and how inspiring these stories are to people who desire a new lease on life.
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9:18
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9:18
The Forgiveness Project
Award-winning journalist and the founder of 'The Forgiveness Project,' Marina Cantacuzino, explains the inspiration behind her passion project, 'The Forgiveness Project.' She shares stories of forgiveness and how her research deepened her understanding of the topic.
Marina examines the nature of forgiveness, providing examples of individuals who have experienced tragedies and how they've navigated their trauma. She also dissects whether religion plays a significant role in forgiveness and whether it helps an individual move forward with their life.
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40:26
The Foundation Of Forgiveness
On December 14, 2012, Scarlett Lewis experienced a life-altering pain when she, along with the world, discovered that her 6-year-old son Jesse, 19 of his classmates, and 6 educators had been killed in a school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary school.
The morning of his murder, Jesse left three words, "Norturing Helinn Love" behind on the kitchen chalkboard, as a permanent reminder of his incredible and pure life. These three words would become the catalyst for Scarlett establishing the Choose Love Movement, a reminder that at the root of forgiveness and understanding is nurturing, healing, and love. Jesse's life is a profound reminder of how forgiveness goes beyond letting go of pain and anger, but instead choosing to understand, in order to let go.
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46:23
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46:23
Is Forgiveness Always Required?
Does our society require us to forgive?
Author of "You Don't Need To Forgive," Amanda Ann Gregory, ponders whether it is a dire necessity.
As a trauma survivor, Amanda understands what it is like to struggle with the idea of forgiveness, and now as a licensed trauma psychotherapist, she helps others conquer the subject. She describes the importance of feeling all the emotions following a trauma, and explores the belief that forgiveness is not always the solution to healing emotional trauma.
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Every Monday, Benjamin Hall will highlight stories of culture, belonging and acceptance. From overcoming the unthinkable, pioneering a new way of life to exploring diverse perspectives on the human experience. Benjamin, along with his remarkable guests will give voice to untold stories , while inspiring listeners to take a deeper look at their own.
USA