Rabbi Avremi Zippel on How You Find Purpose in Your Pain EP 175
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
Deep Dive
Why did Rabbi Avremi Zippel decide to come forward about his childhood abuse?
Rabbi Avremi Zippel decided to come forward after watching Aly Raisman testify about her abuse during the USA Gymnastics scandal. Her bravery inspired him to report his own abuse to law enforcement, seeking accountability and justice.
What was the impact of Rabbi Avremi Zippel's abuse on his mental health?
The abuse led to severe mental health challenges, including panic attacks and a prolonged period of self-blame and guilt. It took years of therapy and support for him to begin healing and to understand the trauma he endured.
How did Rabbi Avremi Zippel's upbringing in an Orthodox Jewish family influence his experience of abuse?
Growing up in an Orthodox Jewish family, Rabbi Zippel was homeschooled and lived in a close-knit, insular community. This environment, combined with the trust placed in his caregiver, made it difficult for him to recognize and report the abuse, as he felt the caregiver was beyond reproach.
What advice does Rabbi Avremi Zippel give to survivors of abuse?
Rabbi Zippel advises survivors to take things at their own pace, avoid comparing their journey to others, and seek professional help. He emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, understanding the impact of trauma, and finding purpose in their pain.
What was the outcome of Rabbi Avremi Zippel's trial against his abuser?
The trial resulted in a guilty verdict on all charges against his abuser. However, Rabbi Zippel emphasizes that justice is subjective and that healing comes from finding personal closure, not just from the legal outcome.
How did Rabbi Avremi Zippel's family react when he disclosed his abuse?
His family was initially shocked and struggled to accept the reality of his abuse, as it was something they believed didn't happen in their community. However, they were supportive once they understood the gravity of the situation and stood by him throughout the legal process.
What role did therapy play in Rabbi Avremi Zippel's healing process?
Therapy was crucial in helping Rabbi Zippel understand and process the trauma he endured. It allowed him to unpack the abuse, confront his feelings of guilt and shame, and begin the journey toward healing and self-acceptance.
Why does Rabbi Avremi Zippel emphasize the importance of finding purpose in pain?
Rabbi Zippel believes that finding purpose in pain is essential for healing. By transforming his traumatic experiences into advocacy and support for other survivors, he has been able to create meaning from his suffering and inspire others to do the same.
What challenges did Rabbi Avremi Zippel face during the trial against his abuser?
The trial was re-traumatizing and emotionally overwhelming, as the defense attorney attempted to shift blame onto Rabbi Zippel. The combative nature of the legal system made the process particularly difficult, but he found strength in his support system and the pursuit of accountability.
What message does Rabbi Avremi Zippel hope to convey through his story?
Rabbi Zippel hopes to inspire survivors to embrace their resilience and strength, and to find purpose in their pain. He encourages others to seek healing, advocate for change, and live authentically, regardless of their past experiences.
- Raised in Salt Lake City in an Orthodox Jewish family
- Homeschooled with siblings
- Unique experience of being an observant Jew in Salt Lake City
- Life of service and commitment to values
Shownotes Transcript