I've been thinking a lot about Robin Williams the past few days since he died of an apparent suicide. It makes me sad, he seemed like a nice guy from everything I've read and heard. It's strange to me that someone who seems to have everything would be so distraught that they'd take their own life. Unfortunately, it happens more often than anyone would care to admit.
People are never satisfied. And it seems the more they have, the more they want. I can't get no...satisfaction. (That's where Mick Jagger comes in).
My friend posted an interesting link on her Facebook page about depression this morning and how pharmaceuticals often fail and her doctor friend has a treatment for depression that is much more successful. I know from my own experiences with depression and cyclothymic disorder (like a mild bipolar, Google it) that a pill doesn't really make things better, at least not for me. What makes me better is being aware of my behavior and forcing myself to take some action. BTW, that's advice from my psychologist, who doesn't let me get away with using the excuse of lack of motivation for not doing anything. She says the motivation comes from the action, not the other way around.
Hmmm.
So this week I'm taking some action, and hoping it leads to motivation to take more action. If nothing else it will get me out of the house.
I have a bracelet with one my favorite Bible verses on it. Philippians 4:13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength (NIV) I've always liked that verse, but people often take it out of context. Like hey, I believe in Jesus, so I can lift this car. Or run 80 miles. Yeah that's not what it means, although you could probably train and eventually do those things if you so choose.
No, to get the context, you need to read the verses before. Verses 11-12 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
Now after you read that, add this: I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
So, in a nutshell, satisfaction. Even if things aren't going how you want them to be going. That doesn't mean you sit back and accept things as they come and never try to change anything. But you learn to be content in your circumstances. Otherwise you might go crazy. And there is someone who can give you strength to get through it.
I feel bad for Williams' family, friends and fans. Many people cared for him and depression lied to him and told him his life didn't matter. I don't know whether he'd been under the care of a physician or taking any medications or getting help with his addiction problems. TBH, it's not really my or anyone else's business. I just hope those who loved him with be able to come to terms with losing him.
Because, in spite of the lies that depression and addiction told him, he mattered. We all matter.
RDG
