CHOICES II-11 - Is Schizophrenia a Question of Faith?

"I guess so, some of it anyway."

 "What I don't understand is why a good boy like you, one with your background, would suddenly make up such a ridiculous story."

"It's not ridiculous," I cried out.  "Satan is putting thoughts into my mind right now.  I need help and you're not listening!"

"Now you listen here, young man!  This charade is not going to work.  I don't know what you're after, but don't take me for a fool."

"It's not an act.  I'm not making it up.  Please, I need your help."

Reverend Schroeder glared at me in the most ferocious way.

"I think we should pray," he finally said.  "You need to ask for God's help."

"Dear God Almighty, please help your son, Robin.  His faith is weak.  He is unruly and he tests the patience of his elders.  Send him the trials he needs to strengthen his faith.  Give him guidance in how to conduct himself and the strength of character to follow it.  And please forgive him for his prodigal ways.  Amen."

Reverend Schroeder thinks I'm faking it!  Why doesn't he believe me?

"Now, Robin, you know that you must repent if you are to receive God's forgiveness.  You must stop this nonsense about Satan attacking you.  As I've taught you, repentance involves not only asking for God's forgiveness but also mending your ways.  Without this, there can be no forgiveness."

Having made these comments, Reverand Schroeder quickly herded me out of his office.

The last hope for assistance in my struggle had just failed me completely.  Facing Satan, the most powerful of all antagonists, I now stood entirely alone.

* * *

Please remember, this writing reflects my own experience and opinions.  If you, or a loved one, are experiencing the symptoms of schizophrenia, or any other mental illness, you should seek professional assistance.