Morning Gratitude: 3 Benefits In Numbers

Do you ever wish you understood the benefit in numbers when you were a child? I would have processed life events differently if I knew there were people who felt like I felt and experienced some of the same things I did, life would not have been so lonely. When you feel alone you are more prone to health problems, addiction, and depression.

The power in numbers is the nail in Harvey Weinstein’s coffin. Female celebrities have enjoyed firing nail guns in his coffin. Rose McGowan understands the power in number and is actively recruiting her Hollywood cohorts to detonate Harvey’s crumbling empire. There are dangers in quantity but there is also power behind them.

• Numbers give the less courageous a sturdier platform.
• There is comfort in numbers.
• There is more credibility with numbers.

First Benefit in Numbers — It Gives the Less Courageous Courage

Speaking up (and out) is easier when you know others have shared your experience. You are less likely to speak up if you think no one will believe you. The Harvey scandal is playing out just like the Bill Cosby scandal played out — as the numbers of victim rise, the number of new accusers also rises.

Second Benefit in Numbers —It Soothes the Pain

The moments after an assault are almost as bad as the assault itself.  You cycle through feeling angry, shocked, and sadness. You wonder what you could have done differently, then pain and shame find a spot in your heart — until you realize you are not alone. While you are not happy that someone else went through something horrific, you find comfort in knowing you are not alone.

Third Benefit in Numbers — It Makes An Unbelievable Story Credible

Predators love the power in secrets. A victim has a better chance of staying quiet if they think no one will believe them. All it takes is one brave soul to start the “it happened to me too” domino effect. You may not have the courage to face scrutiny alone but the more people have the same story, the higher likelihood of believing that story.

There are some disadvantages that come with numbers, like the propensity for groupthink. However, when I hear that someone may have experienced something that I have experienced, there is comfort in that. I thank God for benefit of knowing there were others when it comes to turning victims into victors. #metoo