A Memory

A few years ago, I was working as as advocate at a local CMHC here in my hometown. Probably one my most memorable experiences comes to mind.  It had a strong impact on my life.

I'll call him Randy.  He was a bipolar Plus Plus - not only was he bipolar, he dealt with anxiety. Plus he was in prison.  Randy was about to complete his stay and was hoping for support from the outside world.  He wrote a letter to the Community Mental Health Center for help.  His letter was given to Customer Services and they asked me to get involved.  I thought: Sure we can help, he's bipolar. Besides, how could a few letters hurt anything or anyone.

We exchanged four letters, and I found him to be a very intelligent young man.  He had a lot more problems than the average bipolar, but so wanted his freedom.  He wanted to work his way back into society and be accepted.  Just that simple.  I thought I could make a difference for him. After the four letters, we stopped communicating altogether.  I often wonder what he is doing with his life these days, how he adjusted to life on the "outside".

Guess I will never really know, but somehow I know he is alright.  He was a survivor, in spite of his many difficulties.  He was a good example for me, a guy that had so little yet wrote to me and shared a bit of his life. He doesn't know it, but he taught me to be a "survivor" - he taught me some simple lessons in living.  I am grateful.

Thank you for listening.

Judy