for what it's worth

As you know, Robin Williams passed away yesterday by taking his own life. This is a terrible tragedy and one that is so hard to understand when he seemed to want for nothing.  Depression is like that though, a deceitful and sneaky disease. Often it's sufferers exhibit no outwardly obvious signs of it's severity. It is most often a battle fought in the dark corners of a person's mind. It is so powerful and persuasive in it's mission to destroy and it is often successful. Depression is a cancer of the mind. I have struggled with depression off and on for many years. Until you've experienced it, it is very hard to comprehend how invasive and manipulative this disease is. I can only describe it as heavy. I looked up the definition of heavy  and was surprised to see how many meanings it has both as an adjective and a noun. I'd venture to say that almost each one can relate to depression.  Depression is like having a 50 pound weight strapped to your bac...

Every year about this time we start preparing for "Back to School". I consider this the beginning of the real New Year. When you have kids in school, August is more like January. It entails extensive goal and list making. It spurs an organization frenzy. New clothes, shoes and supplies are bought in order to ensure success in all areas of life from personal image to academic standing. Yes, August brings excitement and a renewed sense of purpose for us, a chance to start again on a blank canvas. With one child in college, my August preparations have lessened quite a bit. College Boy is now responsible for his own personal image and academic standing. Of course, there is the check writing by us that makes this possible plus the friendly and encouraging accountability texts and phone calls to help guide him along the way. I must say, I do not miss the trips to Office Max to fight over supplies. Son #2 is a senior in high school this year. The Senior Year. The amount of stuff...