There are many anniversaries that are important to me. Mine and Margaret's wedding. My sobriety date. My baptism date. My ordination to the Priesthood. My children's birthday's. Margaret's birthday.

 There is one though that has the biggest impact in my life. Today. It's my 31st anniversary in my mentally ill career. This day was the beginning of a new life. During a night of partying I heard my first voice.

For a lot of years this day was a sad day to remember. It wasn't a good day to say the least. It meant that I was now a "sub-human" inflicted with the dreadful illness...schizophrenia.

I always felt sad, depressed, anxious, angry around this time..a few days before and a few after.

What has happened in 31 years? Got sober. Got married (twice). Had two kids and two grandchildren. Voices stopped. Anxiety became a problem. Retired. Went back to church. Got the Priesthood. Baptized my daughter. Helped write a book. Own my home and two cars (all completely paid for) Traveled a lot. Have a wife that loves me. Stopped smoking. Started on my own book. My younger brother died. My siblings disowned me. Deal with life "head on". Spent many days as an inpatient. Love helping others. Learned that its okay to cry. Cried happy tears. Changed bad behavoirs to good ones. Spoke to a room full of church leaders about my addictions.

Its been a rough 31 years. I have endured a lot.

My life is good. I didn't give up completely. I struggled through many things.

This is no longer a day of sorrow it is "the beginning of the rest of my life."

I will live this day the best I can. Sometimes the best is just going through the motions. I will put my foot foward and march ahead.

I am grateful for those of you who have been placed in my path. I am grateful that I don't have to go it alone. Thank you to all of you that have picked me when I was down. Laughed with me when I had a frown. Pushed me I couldn't move. Hugged me when I was alone.

Thank you Lord I am alive and doing fine (Bob Dylan?).

David