This is a particularly challenging solstice to be a therapist. Usually during this time I can rely on my fierce optimism to not only get me through, but to be a beacon and ballast for my clients who are in the depths of despair. This season, I've had the experience of several of my clients being my messengers of hope, shining their light to guide me through the dark.
When I got to work yesterday there were several cards from past clients, all wishing me well and extolling praise and gratitude for my past sturdiness. One of them, from someone who moved to the Rockies over twelve years ago, asked; "Have you dumped that husband and gotten with a woman yet?" I laughed and laughed. I could hear her voice in the words. She was a complete handful as a client, a challenge and a joy. What a mystery, this thing that prompted her to write this card, when I hadn't heard from her in a decade!
As the hours went by, and I sat with clients who are currently struggling with depression, and those who've stopped wrestling and have sunk down, I kept thinking of the cards I'd received, and every time I did, my heart got a little more bouyant. How incredible this ability of humans to serve as life preservers for each other! This time of year is so damnedly cold and dark. No wonder we created these rituals of sending cards and giving presents. Sometimes they actually save lives. I'm sure of it.
4 comments:
Yayyyy!!!!! Thanks for this.
i loved reading your blog today. it realy cheered me up!
Recently I was trying to track down something I'd researched online a few years ago, and the search turned up an entry by a stranger from 5 years ago that I'd never encountered. He said something that showed he'd really appreciated what I'd written. It vanquished the blues I'd been feeling right then.
Yes, these messages in a bottle can save lives, or sanity.
Just dropping by to wish you every blessing for the Yuletide season, and every good wish for a happy and fulfilling new year! A card is in the post to you, but the postal service in the UK being what it is, you will no doubt receive it when the first flowers of Spring are opening. Still, it's on its way and that's the main thing... Lots of love! A x
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