Mags is patient zero. Her contagious laugh carries across the largest, most crowded room. Her smile has been classified by the World Health Organization as a Category B Infectious Biological with an R0 value of 17. Not sure where she gets it from. Maybe her aunt, who was the only person who I’ve ever met who could outsmile or outlaugh Mags.
When I look for her in my writing, she isn’t there. That’s not good. Tradecraft flaw, I know. I’m working on it. While I do, know this: I’ve watched you raise your adult child with ASD Level 3 Autism, care for your aunt in the final stages of Alzheimer’s, and overcome your own challenges with ageing.
You somehow manage to handle whatever the universe throws at you with grace and humor. Every single time. I try to model those traits, because I think they represent a big part of what is best about humanity.
Thank you, Mags, you and all your kindred spirits.
Rock on.
‘Tis the Season
Mags is the exception. Some of us struggle just to smile at all, especially this time of year. There is a special group of First Responders that do some of their best work not kneeling, but seated. In the United States, a cadre of accredited counselors at your local crisis center can put you in touch with local services.
They are there for you, to talk or text about whatever problems you are facing, even if you aren’t thinking about suicide. They have services for English and Spanish speakers, for Veterans and for Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
Calls are free and confidential. Click Here or call 1-800-273-8255
You aren’t in this alone.
Want to help? Look up and support your local Crisis Center. And learn that it’s okay to put yourself out there to help others. You can get some great tips at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. #RealConvo #keepbreathing