The last few years have been interesting for me. After a tough period, I was able to move back to Tennessee and my family. A period of real darkness led to a real opportunity to create something different. At that time, I had already been writing this blog. As I've told you before...it was created as a way to explore the mental illness that has long been part of my life, starting with my Mom. While it was originally written for my daughter, I soon realized that it had other possibilities. During the time that I've written, I've experienced the lows. And I've experienced a period that almost feels like redemption. From the hospital to my home in Tennessee was quite a journey. I remember that I took a bus that traveled overnight. And as I approached my 'new' home, I watched the darkness recede. Daylight came. For real. What a symbol! And don't think I didn't notice. This move really was a new start.
Having the blog to document my thoughts and ideas as the changes occurred has been amazing. Self-expression is truly a tool that can be used to heal. I read many bloggers and others who post in mental health groups. And even when someone is going through the darkness, the fact that they are writing is a sign of hope. I've enjoyed the work of visual artists, and the music of at least one young lady with an extraordinarily pretty voice. And all of it is important to the healing process. Hiding doesn't do anything for us. Mental illness can be powerful. And isolation allows it to operate without any brakes. Can you imagine being in a car as it hurtles downhill with no ability to stop? Frightening. And experiencing mental illness in isolation can feel that way.
This holiday season has made me aware that I'm truly blessed. I've created a platform to talk about a topic that I'm truly passionate about. To be honest, anytime anybody reads it, I'm kind of surprised. My words have impact. I recognize that they wouldn't have impact if you weren't out there listening. I'm grateful that you still give me your attention. And in the new year, I have some goals. The book is in process. It will be on the road to publication prior to the end of next year. I'm slow, but we all know the turtle will eventually get there. As this year winds down, I would like for you to look at some new goals too. If you are out there suffering in silence, make a commitment to yourself to reach out. In whatever way you feel comfortable. Reaching out gave me access to possibility in ways that I wouldn't have ever envisioned. You can do this. If I can support you in reaching out, let me know. We cannot feel better in isolation. Let's talk! Sending love.........
Having the blog to document my thoughts and ideas as the changes occurred has been amazing. Self-expression is truly a tool that can be used to heal. I read many bloggers and others who post in mental health groups. And even when someone is going through the darkness, the fact that they are writing is a sign of hope. I've enjoyed the work of visual artists, and the music of at least one young lady with an extraordinarily pretty voice. And all of it is important to the healing process. Hiding doesn't do anything for us. Mental illness can be powerful. And isolation allows it to operate without any brakes. Can you imagine being in a car as it hurtles downhill with no ability to stop? Frightening. And experiencing mental illness in isolation can feel that way.
This holiday season has made me aware that I'm truly blessed. I've created a platform to talk about a topic that I'm truly passionate about. To be honest, anytime anybody reads it, I'm kind of surprised. My words have impact. I recognize that they wouldn't have impact if you weren't out there listening. I'm grateful that you still give me your attention. And in the new year, I have some goals. The book is in process. It will be on the road to publication prior to the end of next year. I'm slow, but we all know the turtle will eventually get there. As this year winds down, I would like for you to look at some new goals too. If you are out there suffering in silence, make a commitment to yourself to reach out. In whatever way you feel comfortable. Reaching out gave me access to possibility in ways that I wouldn't have ever envisioned. You can do this. If I can support you in reaching out, let me know. We cannot feel better in isolation. Let's talk! Sending love.........
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