20200411.0002 HOW THINGS HAVE CHANGED ...

20200411.0002 HOW THINGS HAVE CHANGED …

So, As I mentioned in the last BLOG Post, I have moved out of my daughter’s house. And I have moved in with some friends who are very caring and kind. Some people may ask why I moved out and it is a rather long story in and of itself, but This blog isn’t about the story why as much as it is about the end result.

As many of you may remember, I have Major Depressive Disorder (or Major Clinical Depression). What this means for me is that I always need to be aware of how my surroundings are affecting me. For instance, stress in all of its myriad of ways will push me deeper into the depressive lows. And when that happens, I need to work extra hard at rising above it all. I do that through positive self-talk (mirror work), mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and all f the other techniques I have learned since 2015 and my last emotional break. I won’t go into the happenings of my last living experience. But I will share the positives of my current experience.

#1 – Animals.

In this household, there are 3 four-legged children. Two of which are dogs who do not understand what a dog is. And one which is a cute little rat that I am in charge of feeding. The two dogs are really affectionate and loving and they help me thrive because they give me love in response to my love that I give them. They are truly remarkable and wonderful. They are both about as large as me (ok, that isn’t really true, but they seem as large as me to my own personal view) and they make quite a lap full when it comes to the climbing in the lap. The rat, Buddy, is adorable in his own right. But I don’t take him out and play with him like I should. And he isn’t really eating like I think he should, but I don’t want to overfeed him. He really is very cute!

#2 – People.

The people in the household are nothing like the situation I left.  In the previous situation, I couldn’t voice my feelings without being told I was wrong. The people here are loving, caring, joking (Yes! I believe they are joking when they tell me something that is contradictory to their actions!) and lucky for me they see the current state of affairs and situation much, in the same way, I am experiencing them. I don’t get the feeling I am condemned for breathing air! (Yes! I felt that way in the previous situation) And I receive what I perceive as daily encouragement. All in all, it is a much better experience for me.

#3 – Choices.

I felt there needed to be a third item and I didn’t want to do location even though that would be valid. But I feel I am making better choices in the long run. Both choices for my mental health and good sleeping and working choices.

Overall it is a great situation that I am in.  And I trust that my hosts will tell me if and when I have overstayed my welcome. Blessings to you and Happy Easter!

- David L.