Compassionist

“We are all islands – in a common sea.” – Anne Morrow Lindbergh

“Life is a like a coin. You can spend it any way you wish, but you can only spend it once.” – Miguel de Cervantes

1. For suffering from bipolar disorder. I was diagnosed in March 1998 but I have had it even longer. I have learned much about myself, reality and others thanks to my suffering. For this I am grateful. Although, I do wish that the education was not so traumatic.

2. For getting the start date for my full-time job as a mental health support worker in Aberdeen. I start on 8 September 2008.

3. For today being the first day of September 2008. I will be moving back to Aberdeen on 7 September 2008. I am really looking forward to that. 11 years ago, on 29 September 1997 I had moved from Aberdeen to Dundee to study medicine. I failed to complete my studies due to bipolar but have become skilfull in being able to handle anything and everything about life. I am much more mindful, grateful, optimistic, compassionate and constructive now than I was 11 years ago.

4. For watching our son sleep. I love listening to the sound of air going in and out of his frequently open mouth. I love the way he moves around in his sleep and travels all over the bed!

5. For getting better at being mindful, grateful, optimistic, compassionate and constructive.

6. For having learned to love those who do not love me, as well as loving those who do love me.

7. For receiving and giving cheers on 43 things.