Be it about major depressive disorder, PTSD, bereavement, an anxiety disorder, a compulsive behavior issue – whatev – if you’re reading this you likely have a story. And I dare say it’s rich in courage and hope. Well, how ’bout telling it in an effort to help others (and yourself)? I want your mission (im)possible tale! Come on, won’t you share?
Last week I shared such a story here on Chipur – The Journey to a Good Place | Sue’s Epiphany. If you haven’t already read it, please do. By the way, be sure to take-in the comments because it’s obvious Sue’s story touched readers’ lives. And the outpouring from her family and friends was heartening.
The telling – and reading – of the story touched Sue’s life, as well. That’s right, it nailed her right between the eyes with goodness. Funny, when she gave me the go-ahead to share, she allowed as how there likely wouldn’t be much reaction; and the impact on others would be minimal. Hmmm, she knows better now.
And there have been other stories of courage and hope shared here. Heck, here’s my tale told in two pieces – I Couldn’t Have Known, but I Sure as Heck Do Now: My Journey I Couldn’t Have Known, but I Sure as Heck Do Now: The Journey’s End, and Beginning. Here’s one from Chipur reader Megan – The Horror of Derealization & Depersonalization | A Reader’s Perspective. And I can tell you a story of courage and hope is comin’ down the pike from Patricia. You won’t want to miss it.
Folks, sharing stories of courage and hope is just huge. How ’bout this? Can you remember when you first became symptomatic? If you were like me all those years ago, when my anxiety disorder commenced I had no idea what hit me. I mean, I was stunned and clueless.
So how do you suppose I felt in 1989 when I came upon a book that shared like experiences of others – and they’d recovered? Are you kidding me? I was elated, relieved, inspired, and filled to the brim with hope.
Wouldn’t you like to read such stories? And if you have a story of courage and hope, wouldn’t you want to lend others a hand by sharing it?
Okay, so I want to make sure we’re all on the same page regarding an important matter. I’m not thinking anyone has a problem with the hope portion of “stories of courage and hope.”
But what about the courage part?
Let me be very clear – anyone who has endured and survived the fires of – you name it – major depressive disorder, PTSD, bereavement, an anxiety malady, or a compulsive behavior issue is a courageous soul.
Don’t believe me? How ’bout this perspective within the context of an anxiety disorder? Let’s say there was a man who lived in a dangerous neighborhood. A wide variety of assaults occurred daily in his neck of the woods. There’d even been a murder not long ago. Oh, and the man had been the victim of a vicious beating just last year. Yet each and every day he walks to his job five blocks from his home because he has to provide for his family.
A courageous person? You’d better believe it!
So think about it. Isn’t that what someone in the midst of a nasty anxiety situation deals with every day? Sure, s/he may not live in a dangerous neighborhood – no worries about being assaulted. But the same level of fear exists because there’s a perception that horrible fates lurk around each and every corner. It’s absolutely real. And s/he carries on because a family has to be provided for.
A courageous person? You’d better believe it!
The Appeal
I’ll cut right to the chase. If you have a story of courage and hope I want to read – and share – it. Could be yours, could belong to someone you know who’s willing to offer it up. Drop me a line and dial me in. I’d love nothing more than to post it right here on Chipur.
Hey! Connecting with each other – sharing and learning – is so important when it comes to healing. I mean, it applies a wonderfully soothing salve on the wound(s). And let’s not forget the hope factor.
Come on, make it happen, k? Share. It’s just plain good…
Stay on top of some 600 Chipur titles. They’re waitin’ for your eyeballs, and wantin’ your attention.
Hey Bill,
Great idea about sharing stories of courage and hope. Stories are what brings people together. We learn from each other and can have compassion for another’s struggles. I look forward to reading more stories on your posts. We can reconnect with each other when we know we have been through a similar situation. and it brings us hope for the future. Thanks!
More than welcome, Cathy. No doubt, sharing – stories and so much more – is a healing balm in this neck of the woods. I’m with you! Really looking forward to the stories to come. Appreciate your stopping-by…
Bill
Hey, Chipur readers! I want to strongly encourage you to consider sharing a story with us. Yes, I know many of us aren’t comfortable with airing our “stuff.” However, for the greater good, I’m hoping you’ll give it some thought. And, remember, it can all be anonymous, if you’d like. Peace…
Bill
Bill,
A truly great and inspirational idea. When reading, I was reminded of the Judeo-Christian, (or any other tradition) stories of the Book of Job and the crucifixion and resurrection. I know it’s powerfully true for me that we humans seem to thrive on sharing the metaphors and technology of, “If s/he can, I CAN!” all the while under the influence of respect and gratitude. Moving from resentment to ambition, as you point out, can be an odyssey–a trip we can’t refuse.
And I’ll say it again, you pick the most evocative and wonderful imagery to invite me in. This one reminded me of my hero, Muhammad Ali’s famous quote, “Impossible is nothing.”
Now back for some emotional dessert as I read the kindly attached stories. I love the way you continue to spread the wealth of the healing in and all around us. Thank you, Bill.
Ya’ know, Herby, it makes me happy when you visit and comment. Always so thoughtful and “contributing.” Sure hope my readers are checking-in with your shtuff.
It’s not uncommon for a client or reader to ask me how I got myself from misery to freedom (though I’m quick to point-out I am not 100% symptom-free – I will always have anxious leanings). I know where they’re coming from, looking for that holy grail. Thing is, I can’t write a recipe for many reasons, the biggest of which is there isn’t one. Healing from an emotional/mental or compulsive behavior issue is not a manual-based process. But I know for certain there’s power in our shared stories – the “I accomplished this, and so can you.” It’s an over-time, sinking-in phenomenon. And if we leave our heads out of it, it most often works.
You’re good to me, Herby. And I appreciate those kind words – and your stopping-by’s. Please come on back…
Bill
This is going to be an awesome service, Bill. I’ve done something similar – Faces of Recovery – and it’s amazing how others sharing their stories helps those who are looking for help see there is a way out. I look forward to reading them and will definitely be sharing them as widely as I can.
Thanks, Lisa. Really excited about the ongoing theme/series. Already have a story in the works – thinkin’ I’ll have it posted by tomorrow night. Appreciate your visit and comment (as always). Chipur readers, make sure you tap on Lisa’s link and check-out her offerings. You’ll be glad you did…
Bill