Chips off the Old Block: “So Much on My Mind Lately.”

Yep, so much on my mind lately. But that’s kind of how I roll (thinking you can relate). It’s good for me to express myself here. And I’m hoping it’ll be good for you, as well. Let’s open the gate…

I started the “Chips off the Old Block” article concept quite some time ago. The deal was, I needed a way to post tidbits of info that didn’t justify an article of their own – yet really needed to be shared. And the “Chips off…” model hit the spot.

So let’s do another, featuring two recent real-life happenings…

A Little Bit of Kindness Goes a Long Way

About a week ago I received the following message from “Mark” via the Chipur Facebook page…

Hi Bill, I’ve been following Chipur for a while now. You’ve given me a lot of hope through the last 6 yrs. I look forward to and read every new article as they come out. I saw on your website a few years back you couldn’t practice outside of your state, and I’m hoping that has changed because I could use a counselor that I can relate to. Thanks

Mark’s message cut straight to my heart. I mean, here’s a guy who’s not only been a long-time Chipur reader, but tells me the articles have given him a lot of hope. You can’t know how much that means to me, as that was everything behind Chipur’s inception.

So I replied, thanking Mark for his kind words and letting him know, for now, out-of-state practice is still a no-go. I suggested he comment on articles that hit home, and I would provide a little extra attention, in reply.

Well, I thought that was that, but two days later…

Sorry Bill, I forgot to ask how you were doing the other day. I hope you’re well spiritually, physically, and mentally. I’ll keep mention of you in my prayers. No need to respond, I just wanted you to know your readers care about you as well.

Are you kidding me?

Mark is struggling with his own mood and/or anxiety issues and he wants to make sure I’m well and will keep me in his prayers. That’s pretty special.

But I shouldn’t be surprised. The vast majority of us living in the mood and anxiety disorder neck of the woods are wonderfully warm, empathetic, and giving folk. After all, who better to know how if feels to be cold and hopeless?

A little bit of kindness goes a long way. Don’t you think?

My Dad: Late-Stage Alzheimer’s

My going-on 94 years father has severe Alzheimer’s disease. Actually, he seemed to have crossed the late-stage threshold very recently.

I’d been out of town and working, and hadn’t seen my dad in a little over a week. I arrived at his assisted-living facility this past Saturday to pick him up for our traditional Saturday lunch with my brother; and, bam, it was painfully obvious he was no longer a moderate case.

In fact, his presentation was of such concern, my brother and I agreed we needed to make an ER trip. Dad was admitted for a couple of days for evaluation, treatment, and observation.

So the ante is upped, and my father’s care needs intensify – and his sons go along for the ride. I might add, in spite of his compromised cognitive status, I truly believe he knows he’s in a tough spot.

But you know, it’s curious. As much as I feel badly that my father has to go through this, I’m not devastated. Look, he’s had almost 94 years on this planet – granted the last four have been difficult. But that’s one heck of a life. Frankly, I don’t think I stand a chance of matching him in years.

Thing is, my dad’s situation is teaching me much about life – about me. And I think he’d want it that way.

For instance, I’ve gained insight into my existential concerns, as well as enjoying a real measure of relief, in kind. News flash! We’re all going to die, and it may not be pretty when the time comes. But it’s not as though I’m the first human to face that reality, and bloody-well have to deal with it.

And then there’s the practice and development of empathy. I don’t feel sorry for my father. Rather, I have tons of empathy – and respect.

So being around him isn’t a call for the maudlin and shedding of tears. It’s about love, connection, learning, understanding – and humor. Cute, I can still get a grin or chuckle out of him.

That’s so good.

Let’s Tie a Bow

Blah, blah, blah, on I could go.

You bet, much on my mind lately. But then there always is. I’m glad I could get a couple of things off my chest, sharing them with you. And I have to believe many of you can relate – in a variety of ways.

After all, it’s life – in the mood and anxiety disorder neck of the woods.

I’m inviting you to check-out hundreds of Chipur mood and anxiety disorder-related titles. I think you’ll find the articles helpful.