Some years ago, I realized that I have seasonal depression or sadness. Having a name for it actually helped me to claim it and learn more about how to live with it. Part of the process for me was to notice the various shades of gray and cloudiness on dark winter days and to come to appreciate those days, too. I still love sunny days best and try to get outdoors, but I also have learned to grant myself slow, quiet times.
I’m also trying not to listen to all the disturbing, idiotic news and to hold it at a distance. Right now I don’t know what will actually happen and right now, I don’t know what I can do about it!! So I stand ready to act when it’s clear how I can act.
So observing and appreciating the shades of light and darkness. Found book by Barbara Brown Taylor very helpful!!
Disturbing and idiotic is the perfect description! <3
And yes, I miss the long days of sunshine, though I don't think I have SAD--and it does help to be attentive to the beautiful subtleties of the light at this time of year.
So I live in the land now (Texas) of big sky and lots of light and sun, but I find that with all this light, it doesn’t seem to help people see more clearly. And then there is the light in LA that at this late hour, the city should be dark, but the fires are creeping toward buildings and people who just want it to be dark, fires out. “This little light of mine… I’m going to let it shine.” That’s what I take away from your thoughts tonight, MaryAnn. You help me to feel not so alone with this country’s dark side.
Thank you, MaryAnn. I’ve been struggling with SAD and my old companions depression and anxiety. As you shared, the events in this country and world don’t help matters much at all.
Last night Denise and I stayed at the church where she is a member to support the Cold Weather shelter. A mother who is deaf and legally blind with two little girls (ages 3 & 4) stayed with us along with a single mother of six (her two girls had a place to stay with family but she and her four boys had no place to stay). It reminded me of the vast difference between our life and theirs… it also reminded me of the absolute failure on the part of society and the government to care for all of God’s children… overwhelmed, thankful that we could help in a small way, we are still searching for that light. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and your heart.
Thank you for your kindness. Small world department… Sarah Erickson and I celebrated our retirements at the same Presbytery meeting! Denise has known her for a long time and it has been a privilege for me to know her and call her a friend.
Maryann,
Some years ago, I realized that I have seasonal depression or sadness. Having a name for it actually helped me to claim it and learn more about how to live with it. Part of the process for me was to notice the various shades of gray and cloudiness on dark winter days and to come to appreciate those days, too. I still love sunny days best and try to get outdoors, but I also have learned to grant myself slow, quiet times.
I’m also trying not to listen to all the disturbing, idiotic news and to hold it at a distance. Right now I don’t know what will actually happen and right now, I don’t know what I can do about it!! So I stand ready to act when it’s clear how I can act.
So observing and appreciating the shades of light and darkness. Found book by Barbara Brown Taylor very helpful!!
Disturbing and idiotic is the perfect description! <3
And yes, I miss the long days of sunshine, though I don't think I have SAD--and it does help to be attentive to the beautiful subtleties of the light at this time of year.
So I live in the land now (Texas) of big sky and lots of light and sun, but I find that with all this light, it doesn’t seem to help people see more clearly. And then there is the light in LA that at this late hour, the city should be dark, but the fires are creeping toward buildings and people who just want it to be dark, fires out. “This little light of mine… I’m going to let it shine.” That’s what I take away from your thoughts tonight, MaryAnn. You help me to feel not so alone with this country’s dark side.
🩷
Thank you, MaryAnn. I’ve been struggling with SAD and my old companions depression and anxiety. As you shared, the events in this country and world don’t help matters much at all.
Last night Denise and I stayed at the church where she is a member to support the Cold Weather shelter. A mother who is deaf and legally blind with two little girls (ages 3 & 4) stayed with us along with a single mother of six (her two girls had a place to stay with family but she and her four boys had no place to stay). It reminded me of the vast difference between our life and theirs… it also reminded me of the absolute failure on the part of society and the government to care for all of God’s children… overwhelmed, thankful that we could help in a small way, we are still searching for that light. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and your heart.
I’m sorry you’re struggling right now, but sharing our experiences is so important, so thank you for sharing that. I value you in my life, Michael!
And thank you for both being Jesus and meeting him in your service last night.
Thank you for your kindness. Small world department… Sarah Erickson and I celebrated our retirements at the same Presbytery meeting! Denise has known her for a long time and it has been a privilege for me to know her and call her a friend.