Darkness

A cloudy day in summer disguises the year's brightest days. Being able to see in the dark of difficult times is an acquired skill. In this time of chemical fixes for any mood, it is not popular to take the responsibility for maintaining mental health and resilience without popping a pill. This is the age of the biochemical excuse.

While, as a nurse, I accept that some mental disease is genetic or biochemical in nature, I also understand that mental disease, like obesity, need not be a passive affliction. The passive affliction model is an outgrowth of the victim culture. "Oh, I was born with this, so I can't help it." 

Yes, some genetic problems are irreparable and devastating, but they are very few. The eventual quality of life can be enhanced with effort, education and support. This is true of just about every state of being. Where there is life, there is hope. But hope needs a push from within. 

A daily practice helps dispel darkness and increase vision. Whether a person requires medication or not for some dark personal struggle, a daily practice of health and mental awareness can make the difference between passive affliction and proactive growth. Practice can be the lighted candle which shows the way out of the darkness and into the light.