#sometimes i feel like people sort of brush ritsu’s part in this aside

[exilepurify]

I’ve gotta say, if Ritsu hadn’t fostered his own personal growth and realized that he was complicit in perpetuating a cycle of trauma between himself and Shigeo, and if he instead had allowed himself to be hurt by Shigeo again in Confession Arc, I think it would’ve sent Shigeo to a point beyond saving. I don’t think even Reigen’s confession could’ve snapped him out of the despair of it. Ritsu (and Teru’s) role in the situation was absolutely vital to it ending well.

After having grieved and mourned it for so many years, if Shigeo had to watch himself hurt Ritsu, nothing would work anymore. That would’ve been the end for him, at least figuratively. I don’t think he could fully heal from it—at least not for a long time. Because that would be explicit confirmation that he is unsafe, that he is a monster, and that he cannot trust himself. Shigeo would’ve either completely shut down or have seen no reason to try anymore and let loose completely.

Despite Reigen being the one to “officially” calm Mob down, I cannot stress enough how vital Ritsu was to this process, especially his intelligence and compassion. Sometimes the kindest and most forgiving thing you can do for someone you love is to refuse to be their victim.