Barrett, D. A. (1997). Through the Forbidden: Journeys of Suffering and Transformation (Doctoral dissertation, Pacifica Graduate Institute, 1997). UMI no. 3008494.
In a culture which frequently denies or is embarrassed by suffering, the possibility that suffering may have a healing or transforming function is rarely considered. In view of its ubiquity, though, it seems worthwhile to see what potential suffering may have for contributing to and transforming human life. To this end, this study investigated the question, How does authentic, genuine suffering transform?
Psychological, theological, and medical literature, philosophy, scripture, and artistic representations of suffering and transformation were reviewed to arrive at a sense of the nature of suffering and the process of transformation. But suffering in the abstract does little to inspire faith that it will transform the ordinary person. To see how suffering transforms ordinary individuals, depth studies of four people who felt their suffering had transformed them were undertaken. Their stories, and my reflections on their processes, are presented.
What was learned? Suffering appears to transform by placing such inexorable limitations upon individuals that they are forced deeply back within themselves. They begin a process of reclaiming and integrating forbidden parts of themselves; relationships with God and with others deepen. As well, intuition, and other aspects of the nonrational become forceful guides in their lives. A sense of meaning, purpose, and interconnectedness develops. And in the end, a new and respectful relationship with suffering is forged.
