One
Ireland is an amazing place for so many reasons, but the best one is that the Irish are kind. If you are an observer, you will see it in a thousand brief interactions as you wander cities like Cork or Kilkenny. Teens simply stopping to help older adults and infirm because it’s the right thing to do. People stepping out of your way because they see you use a walking assist. The Irish do not ignore need. They see it and they respond as they are able. Here’s a few of my favorite shots from our trip.
Two
Yesterday was the first day in over 25 years that I’m free of depression meds. It’s taken 15 months to wean me off everything I was taking. TMS made this possible. I now have a functioning mind. In fact, it’s better than it’s ever been.
So, 48 hours into my last step down and I’m irritated at everything. That’s normal for Wellbutrin, though. This is my fourth step down with it, so it’s nothing out of the ordinary. Knowing that meds can affect so many aspects of my life is just one reason I’m happy to be free.
I am NOT apposed to meds, I’m just saying that there is another path. One that has a significantly higher success rate than meds and far fewer side effects. TMS works. Here’s more info on TMS and my journey.
Three
It’s so nice to be off for the summer and soon, that will be my norm. Teaching has been a cornerstone of my identity since I first walked into Tom Molnar’s classroom in 1988. It’s been the most amazing experience, but I’m going to be ready to go. I have less that three years, that may sound like a lot of time… but to a teacher, it’s not. Will I miss the kids? Hell yes. Will I miss anything else? Hell no.
Four
Accepting the challenge of being a writer is to invite impostor syndrome into every crack and crevice of your head sponge. It’s terrifying to put your art out there. It’s also thrilling. Sometimes I reread something I wrote and I’m shocked because… damn, it’s good. Here’s an example. This is a snip-it from chapter 1 of my series I’m currently editing.
“Boots!” both women called from their stools before Derric could take another step. Abigail came from the back room, gave a sarcastic curtsy to Derric, then stopped to help the big man pull his boots from his feet. He just laughed and tossed Ben up in the air a few times before dropping him to…
Five
I’m currently working on a piece about the rise of American Fascism. I’m saving my political words for that. I’ll be posting it soon.