Hi JJ:
Good question. I would describe the growth to S/A as more of the dying of the child and birthing of an adult. Almost everyone in the world operating under the pretense of being an adult is an adult body housing a 7 year old child. Just look at the face, it's quite evident. Sadly, most lack the joy of the child.
T/R is when the heavy work begins. But there are a number of ways to approach T/R that are powerful but not horrific.
Love ya, Jed.