Some people have diabetes that requires constant care and monitoring.
Some people have mental illness that is just that -- an illness in the brain and emotional functions. It can be treated more like diabetes than knee problems, with constant care and monitoring. And one can live a fully successful and even happy (mostly) life.
Rather than recreating the whole exposé again, I will cut and paste some Facebook posts from the last couple of days. I deleted the names and links to comments from many good friends so those show up without an icon in front. My comments appear with my name and current FB pic (for Puerto Rico):
Dear Friends and Family:
I used to have guns. Do you know why I don't anymore? Because I suffer from a mental illness called depression*. My suicidal ideation was to drive up on the Skyline Drive, park, get out of the car so no mess, and blow my brains out.
I gave my guns to a relative that I trust more than any other to see that those guns are never used purposely or accidentally to take a life.
There are many in my family I can't trust with those guns. There are some in my family I can't trust at all because they treat me with vindictiveness and hatred for having beliefs different than theirs.
I am sick of guns and mental illness and the failure of those who should care and support me to see and hear my needs. The NRA is an evil and corrupt organization and has bought up politicians to sell more guns that result in more escalating deaths.
There is no unlimited right to bear arms in the US Constitution outside a well-regulated militia. A well-regulated militia would identify and treat those who are a danger to themselves and others in the bearing of arms.
_________
*and anxiety, duh.
*and anxiety, duh.
I love you, Dad. I never knew that you struggled so much and it really helps me to understand some thoughts and things I've gone through in my life so far. I'm grateful that you shared this with everyone and you are an amazing example of strength and resilience to me, my wife, and your future grandchild. We love you! ��
ReplyDeleteThank you. I don't know why it's so hard to tell the truth about difficult things. It's so much better than living under fear and denial.
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