Shame is an immensely popular tool in our world today. Shame is a tool used by people to control, manipulate and exploit others. The problem is not that shame exists; rather, the problem is that we share a world with people who, when given the chance, will in fact try to control, manipulate and exploit other human beings with any tool they can find.

People wield shame as a tool of influence, pointing it at others; when in reality, it is they who wield shame as a tool who in fact deserve to feel ashamed!

It is not shameful to be weak, to make mistakes, to be compromised. Why should anyone be ashamed of the elements involved in a truly raw and real human experience? Every human being on this planet has been weak, has made mistakes, and has been compromised. These are elements of what it means to be human.

But to exploit, manipulate, control and coerce another human being? These are all legitimate causes for shame to rot your life. The desire to see someone shamed is shameful.
You may think you can outwit shame but the truth is that she is a worldly, wealthy woman who will sell out those who use her. She will sell you out to the highest bidder, turn you into livestock, into cattle. Freshly ground meat. You cannot use shame without being cut wide open. She simply will not allow it.

Shame is a lonely girl and when you befriend her, she will reward you with riches. She is a gatekeeper. Your life begins on the other side of shame. She'll provide you with a boat filled with barrels of gold bars if only you choose to be brave enough to sail the river to the other side.

But if you use her? Now that's a different story. Use shame against others to your own benefit and I can assure you, she will cut you open and leave your guts on the chopping board at the public market.