Fighting for What’s Right

 

Politics has never just been about policies and party lines; it is fundamentally about people. It involves families striving to make ends meet, veterans seeking the benefits they were promised, educators dedicated to shaping the next generation, and women fighting for their right to make choices about their own bodies. However, these essential rights and values are threatened under the current administration, and I refuse to stand by and watch.

For years, I have dedicated my career to serving others, whether advocating for veterans by helping them navigate the complexities of VA benefits or training others in wellness and resiliency. I have also spent 15 years educating youth, shaping young minds to think critically about the world they will inherit. Now, I see that world being shaped by leaders who prioritize power over people, corporate greed over climate action, and control over freedom.

How I Found Hope Living with Depression

 

It has been almost two years since I contemplated dying by suicide. It was a dark time. A time that I do not want to go back to. There are days when I can't believe it ever happened. How did I become so hopeless that I thought death was the only answer?

Regardless of how I got to the dark time, I want to reflect on how far I have come today. This is not to say that life has been all rainbows and butterflies—it hasn't been. Life happens. However, when life happens, I am much better prepared for the rough road ahead than I was two years ago.

Is It Just Me?

I'm tired of being everyone's counselor.

I'm tired of being everyone's lover.

I'm tired of being everyone's confidant.

How Does an Introvert Deal with Depression?

My blog on HealthyPlace: Introverts Guide to Coping with Depression

Being introverted means I am the type of person who re-energizes through solitude. Some may think this is weird or a bad thing. It's not. It is just how my brain works - I would much rather hang out with my kids, pup, or a couple close friends than be with a group of people or at a large gathering. Now as I have gotten older, I have become more adaptable to being in large groups and having to hold conversations with others (although I still suck at small talk). However, when I'm done socializing, I'm exhausted! I then need some quiet time or a nap to be functional again.