So far this year, I've learned of the deaths of 4 former clients, 1 former coworker, a cousin, and a niece.
My work was the site of a gun scare, and I (along with others) witnessed a shooting while on an out of town trip.
My brother received a traumatic brain injury, and I received other news that was a profound reminder of past pain.
Through all this, I've experienced something that would have been unlikely in the past, and seems surprising even now.
I'm doing ok.
Yes, this spring has been exhausting. And yet, through it all, I find myself floating above what could understandably be soul-crushing.
I've become strong.
I'm not repressing emotion: I'm dealing with it. I'm asking for help from professionals and from friends.
Why am I ok?
I think a large part of it has been the growth I've experienced while engaging in this community, which has become one of the significant circles in my life. I've learned, and continue to learn, cooperation and collaboration instead of codependency, stubborn independence, and learned helplessness.
So many people here play small and large parts in my journey, and the small parts really aren't small.
Thank you to everyone who shows up with their authentic selves, and helps me to discover my authentic self.
In what ways have you found new strength and emotional buoyancy, through this site or elsewhere?