Many names and details are altered to protect those discussed and keep their identities and loved ones anonymous.

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A "crime of passion" is a violent act, typically homicide, in which the aggressor acts against another out of an impulsive, overwhelming urge, such as rage or jealousy, rather than a planned act. My role as a liberation-oriented music therapist is never to judge a person's past but rather to assist them in uncovering the inner humanity within their condition. Humans are complex beings capable of horrific acts, kindness, generosity, and a wide range of circumstances somewhere between."Ga-Ram" was a person who allegedly did something terrible. Still, it is not the only way to characterize her.

She was a Korean immigrant charged with killing her married boyfriend, of who she was the mistress. After learning she was pregnant, she allegedly killed him during a heated argument over finances and support. His lifeless body had been discovered at her residence after she allegedly fled with his car carrying his credit cards from his wallet. She was apprehended in another state and returned to face her charges. She had a gun registered to the man in her possession, which matched the ballistic tests performed at the crime scene.

Another heartbreaking story for me: this man did not deserve to die, and while his deception with his family saddens me, it does not warrant a death sentence. Her alleged actions have left three children fatherless, as well as the safety of her unborn child is now put at risk. However, she also deserves empathy and compassion, as her case, as in all cases, is complex and nuanced. And, as in all cases, I strive to approach each person with empathy, objectivity, and accountability.

When engaging in this work, we must continuously develop self-awareness in tandem with our social analysis. Evaluating what power dynamics, internal psychological biases, emotional vulnerabilities, and cultural prejudices may be present are critical. Even if one's intentions are noble, you don't want your actions mistaken or interpreted as inappropriately crossing boundaries. Privilege exists in the zones where one may be naive or unaware of the effects of their actions and with little to no consequences from said actions. We must also be vigilant in protecting ourselves against being misled or manipulated by those we serve. In desperate situations, people may be willing to go to any length to ensure their safety and survival. Everyone, including ourselves, can be a manipulator or a manipulatee, continuously adjusting between the two poles depending on the situation, both psychologically and socially. I always set rules and boundaries before participating to lessen the risk of potential exploitation beyond the already out-of-balance power dynamics.

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Ga-Ram (A Human Universal pt. 2)

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