“Complex personhood”, a concept from sociologist Avery Gordon, refers to the truth that we are all full of contradictions, neither victim nor perpetrator, neither fully wounded nor fully healed, always somewhere in between and both, stumbling as we search for ways to survive and thrive.

Sexuality is a huge part of our complex personhood. It can be a source of spiritual pain, destroying our sense of self and disconnecting us from others. And, the exact same sex acts, when given different meaning, can bring joy, passion, self-confidence, and deep connection.

In this episode, GeeGee shares their experience with sexual assault and its aftermath. In the months following the assault, GeeGee became hyper-sexual. This had a rough impact on their self-esteem and social life, including leading to a non-consensual encounter that left them struggling with long-term guilt.

Eventually, GeeGee embarked on an intentional journey of personal healing, finding it in their heart to forgive both the person who assaulted them and themself. They learned that slutty sex itself was not the problem, but rather how they pursued sex and what it had meant in their lives. Today, GeeGee continues to have sex with lots of people, but through social connections and strong personal boundaries that are life-giving and positive.

This episode steps away from the often over-simplified narrative of sexual assault. GeeGee’s story offers survivors a reminder that everyone processes and responds to trauma differently, including the nonlinear path of reclaiming a sense of autonomy and personal power.

@Vanessacliff2