A Tribute to My Friends
I can't exactly record an "It Gets Better", 'cause for me I'm still climbing out of that depressive hellpit and oftentimes feel like I get thrown a shovel instead of a rope.
I can say with no prevarication that depression is a stone bitch.
(Notes:
a.) I do not characterize my depression as female. To me it is a place. I will return to this point later.
b.) I do not condone the use of "bitch" in a non-ironic or derogatory fashion, whether against males or females.
c.) Those who are my emotional intimates know that I do not use strong language, vis-a-vis "bitch," unless I REALLY want to make a point. This means you KNOW it's bad.)
Right now I'm reading Rita Mae Brown's "Hiss of Death" and Harry's struggles therein (no spoilers) really, truly make me feel grateful above all for my friends. She says her friends are one of the reasons she goes on every day. Mine are, too. Hold fast to the ones you love, truly. I am grateful for NOTHING above my friends. My parents, my cats and my books are all profoundly meaningful, of course, but I truly believe NOTHING is more meaningful than the bonds of family one creates for one's self.
I mentioned above that I picture my depression as a place. It varies between the most barren, lifeless sun-bleached desert and the mistiest, bleakest foggy moor, but to feel a friend's hand in one's own when one faces that loneliness is perhaps one's best solace.
I have the best support network in the world, and I want to shout out to them.
I'm gonna' TRY to remember everyone individually, and I get the feeling I'll need addenda later.
* Chris, for your listening ear and your sense of humor. Not to mention your desire to philosophize!
* Dani, for your blithe spirit and upbeat attitude.
* Colleen, for your merry nature
* Missy, for--well, your BFF-ness, I suppose...You never fail to make me laugh, no matter what.
* Kevin--you were there during a REAL crisis--thank you for being the one I could call at 1:30 AM
Your gentleness has seen me through some dark times.
* Jordan--a toast, to absent friends. I WILL get in touch with you before the next millennium!
* B--Where would I be without my Goddess-girl? <*wink*> Your humor and Aphrodite-buoyant nature are a balm, especially when my nature takes things too damn seriously!
* Carrie (and Charlotte!)--Your hugs, your love, your SANITY--thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!
* Sharon C.--I LOVE talking with you and miss you! I'll be in touch ASAP!
Back later when I'm not so...What's the word? At any rate, back later!
You ALL have my hugs and my love!