The Mind, 
UNTAMED, is a dangerous thing. Without self-control over the mind , your train of thought is not disciplined . . . it waivers . . . and the mind wanders. If not careful, the mind can become fragmented, out of order, and out of control. Before long, people who have no self-control may find themselves causing serious damage to their lives and the lives of those they love and care about. This can happen because the person's behavior is so out of control and destructive that the only wise solution is to seek professional help, because self-help has not been successful.
How do you know when you need to seek professional help?
When should you seek professional help?
A wise person who has tried to solve their problems, i.e., bad behavior patterns, addictive behavior, anger issues, etc., without success, will realize his/her self-help limitations. Professional help is needed if the problems are too severe for self-help, this includes behaviors beyond one's control: serious alcohol abuse, drug abuse, suicidal depression, deviant sexual behavior, intense hostility (where there is any risk at all that someone will be hurt), confusion, criminal tendencies, or any problem serious enough to interfere with school, work, or family life. Professional help is also appropriate if you have made a couple of genuine attempts to help yourself without success. Do not be ashamed of your self-help efforts and do not hesitate to seek expert help. It is just wise.
One way to try to pull your life into focus is to Journal your thoughts daily. Then you will have a record which is personal and truthful. You can take 15 minutes each day (at the time of your choice), to Journal your thoughts for the day. If you find this practice helpful, you may want to do this twice a day -- in the morning and in the evening.
To Journal your thoughts is to take a closer look at you; to get to know you better; to understand you better. You'll find out that there are things that you really do want to accomplish in your life; and that you have somehow managed to bury or push aside some of your hopes and dreams unintentionally. . . .
Not to worry . . . you've discovered that TODAY a door has opened, and that now you KNOW what before you couldn't put your finger on. You may have felt that something was missing, or that you wanted to really accomplish something in your life, but you had long forgotten that dream somehow. Nothing is ever lost forever -- just temporarily or momentarily unavailable -- maybe detoured for a second or two -- but never out of reach.
At the end of each week, you can look back at your Journal and see in what direction your thoughts have taken you. If you do not like the way you have been thinking, CHANGE your thoughts. If you find that your Journal shows you that you have been thinking negative thought-patterns, i.e., bitterness, anger, rage, unforgiveness, self-pity, self-doubt . . . take the time to understand that these emotions do not serve your best interest. Know that if you do not CHANGE your thinking about the emotions you have been feeling, your body will begin to inform you. Your physical health is at its best when you are well nourished-- mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Thinking positive thoughts, taking care of yourself, and learning to keep your emotions in prospective are positive steps that you can take daily to ensure that your mind, body, and soul stay on the right path.
Feed your spirit. Commune with God. Read the Word. Never forsake your spiritual studies. Fellowship. Embrace FRIENDSHIP.
When we FOCUS our minds on our God-given gifts and talents, bringing forth positive and fruitful outcomes in our lives -- for ourselves and others, our souls REJOICE!
Our minds will naturally focus on what we have in our hearts. And, our Creator always sees to it that the unique dreams destined just for us become our heart's desires.
The ARTISTIC side of us that some of us long for deep in our hearts, yet cast aside to pursue something different, something other than, something we have convinced ourselves is the more appropriate thing to do or pursue, is still waiting on us.
Find out what it is that you long for. Find out what it is that you do well that uplifts others as well as yourself (and your spirit). Find out what makes you happy. Find out what it is that you can contribute to the world to make a difference. It won't be hard to do or know -- just search yourself.
And, remember, it is not up to anyone else to do what it is for you that makes you happy -- to do for you what you alone were put on this earth to do -- it is up to you, and you alone.
"LOVE SHINES!"
Our joyful thoughts bring about joyful results in our lives, prompting the smiles on our faces that spread fast and furious throughout our daily travels. . .
TODAY, share your MIND and HEART~felt thoughts, along with the WISDOM you have learned, but first make sure it has been tamed through the practice of unconditional LOVE without limit. Try your LOVE out on an ARTISTIC PROJECT, and SEE what comes forth.
Happy Creations!
Rene A. of Artistic Minds®
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Comments: 126
I'm not saying everyone needs therapy, but the ones that need it often do not question their actions or thoughts..sane people do.
I think this world has it backwards...when it comes to getting help. It is a responsible smart person who seeks help, it is an irresponsible dumb person who watches their world come apart and do not lift a finger to even get help to cope with what is happening around them.
The only one we can change is ourselves.
Great Article! Everyone should read this one!
Penni d. ~ You must have thought about what Heather said after you had posted your response and then had an epiphany ~ smile ~ the two of you had me laughing and crying ~ LOL. Penni d. ~ "bless his heart" -- I could just see you in my mind saying those words with a very angelic look on your face.
You two are so truthful and honest and your words really hit the mark. Thanks a lot . . . you two really made me smile today!
Thank you both for these precious comments/moments ~ still smiling . . .
Blessings without end ~
Rene A.
Blessings,
Rene A.
I've raised this issue in several writings--and many conversations: That fine line between creative genius, and insanity . It is undeniable. But the point I want to make, in connection with your post is this:
Many creatives ( bi-polars especially ) don't want to be medicated as they need, because it might take the edge off their creativity ( which usually is heightened in manic episode periods) . I'm bi-polar, but after two breakdowns ( really starting with the first ) I knew I would rather be sane . Praise God, I have still maintained a level of creativity comfortable for me.
A side-point, which has much historical proof : sometimes creative bursts during manic episodes and breakdowns, SEEM to make sense to its creator during that period--- yet make no sense at all to others who read or view it , for the work (s) truly were incomprehensible .
I say all this, because I encourage all who need professional help, even proper medication, to receive it--- the sooner the better. Some manic-depressives, whether creatives or not--- can become extremely violent and unmanageable when not on medication and treatment. Yes, I totally agree with your theme of encouraging people to get the help they need.
Lonnie Ray Fowler
In the past, we've discussed BPD (Behavior Personality Disorder) and Bi-Polar issues in Artistic Therapy. It was very, very helpful for many people here in Gatherland to discuss both issues with others, and to talk about their experiences with their Family and Friends. It offered very enlightening assistance, by way of medications tried and the results; the therapy sessions taken and the results; and issues with Family Members who were Bi-Polar or who had BPD -- and HOW to deal with it.
I do hope that you will come back and share with us how long you battled with being Bi-Polar ~ how long before you were diagnosed, and how long before you saw in improvements? Did you choose medication right away or not? Was there different medications that you tried before finding the right fit? Did you seek THERAPY?
We'd be very happy to hear more from you Lonnie ~ Feel free to speak on!
I thank you for explaining things in this article and for encouraging people to get help when they have a mental issue. The biggest problem is that very often others see the problem but the person with the problem thinks he is perfectly normal.
I admire your courage and compassion in taking a step to take in the teenage young man who had been residing in a Group Home.
Were you able to learn more about ADHD, OCD and Bi-Polar diagnoses? Has it helped you in any way to identify others with the same issues?
Do you go to church? And, have you taken this young man with you? I'd be interested in hearing your response.
Another method is Alternative Therapy. You should also check into that. This young man may also be very creative and artistic, and you should get him plenty of art supplies. Watch what happens.
I taught art for a long time to plenty of children who were on all kinds of medications. They were problem students. Which I didn't know when I took them in as art students. When their teachers and parents came to the class to observe, you couldn't hear a pin drop ~ they were so quiet and focused on their art. I learned so much from these young people. Their teachers and parents wanted to know what I had done to get the kids to be so quiet and behave for 2 hours straight every session. It was then that I found out the long list of problems that they supposedly had. These kids were wonderful! They could sing, they could draw, they could paint, and their conversations were very enlightening. I say it is the creative and artistic people who just need to turn to what they are "gifted" with. That includes kids. It is amazing how labels, drugs, and every other negative aspect of life falls away when this is done.
My objective was not only to teach kids how to use their gifts and talents, but to demonstrate them, learn how to market their work and how to price it. They became business people, and held Exhibits, and participated in Gallery Crawls. I cried when I had to stop doing that. And it still burns in my heart.
I would imagine that that is the very "feeling" that those who are born to CREATE feel when LIFE gets in the way. Frustration, angry, upset, uncomfortable, unsetttled, unhappy...
But, God has a way of showing clear paths regardless.
You're welcome, and THANK YOU! I hope to hear back from you on this, and I'm sure that others reading do to...
HURRY BACK!
First of all, thank you for the kind words. You're right, there are no words of comfort that help the healing process after losing a child but I made the decision to dwell on the good times we had and the blessing he was instead of wallowing in the moments we would never share.
I have learned more about this young man's many issues and having worked in the educational system, was already able to identify with others that deal with the same problems. There are so many in this situation that I could write a book but I felt, and still feel, that he has the potential to lead a good life if he can learn to make peace with his problems and accept treatment.
I do not attend church regularly, mostly because I have a very strange schedule as my mother's caretaker. Another reason is that my foster son is very bitter with God and the church and I can understand his train of thought even though I try to guide him into making peace on this front as well.
I've looked into alternative therapy and at the moment, have him enrolled in alternative schooling. One of the biggest problems is that he does not have a defined line between fantasy and reality, or what is possible and what is not. His adopted father tells me that he wasn't able to watch a lot of movies or sports because he did not understand that it wasn't real.
I've tried art projects and crafts, gardening, singing, sketching, and even journaling. This young man truly has no desire to do anything except UFC fighting with some people who have no idea of the amount of anger he holds, and video games that are filled with violence. Even with those, he won't play them through, he finds cheat codes to win without figuring them out.
He's intelligent in many ways but he denies having any problems and his adoptive parents were not good at making him do anything he didn't want to do or supervising him.
I agree with you. God has a way of showing clear paths and I am praying that my job with this young man is to help him find his path. Sometimes tough love comes into play and as much as I hate to do that, I use it when it's necessary. Today I told him that he had been out past his curfew five times in a row and getting home on time is a manner of respecting the household rules.
He told me recently that his fourth grade teacher told his adoptive parents that they had brought a young Hitler into their household and would regret it. He smiled when he said, "And she was right. They did regret it."
As far as I know, I'm the only woman he has ever allowed to hug him or he has wanted to hug him. I do that every day.
It's going to be a long and bumpy ride for him but I hope my influence has helped him. He will eighteen this coming December and he thinks the world is just waiting for him to be on his own. We shall see.
Thank you for the response!
"I do not attend church regularly, mostly because I have a very strange schedule as my mother's caretaker. Another reason is that my foster son is very bitter with God and the church and I can understand his train of thought even though I try to guide him into making peace on this front as well." ~ Dianna
You have an awful lot on your plate Dianna, with caring for your mother, and your foster son that is now in your life.
When you mentioned that your foster son (that you have taken in) is very bitter with the church and with God, and that you can understand his train of thought, are the reasons he has these feelings something that he has received any therapy for? It may be helpful to get involved with a prayer circle (even by phone) for your family. PRAYER truly works.
I'm glad to hear that you try to guide him with regard to his "feelings" on this issue.
The next part of what you've shared ~ I'm going to the next comment box with...
"I've looked into alternative therapy and at the moment, have him enrolled in alternative schooling. One of the biggest problems is that he does not have a defined line between fantasy and reality, or what is possible and what is not. His adopted father tells me that he wasn't able to watch a lot of movies or sports because he did not understand that it wasn't real." ~ Dianna
So interesting about your foster son not having a fine line between "fantasy" and "reality"...
Has your foster son been diagnosed with "schizophrenia" ? You may want to just look into the symptoms of schizophrenia, and see if any of those symptoms fit your foster son's behavior patterns.
I'm glad to hear that your foster son is now enrolled in alternative schooling, and that you've been looking into alternative therapy methods.
... I'm continuing to read the rest of what you've shared ...
He has not been diagnosed with anything other than ADHD and OCD. He is doing well in alternative school with a smaller group of students and a teacher that thinks outside of the box.
It is very HOPEFUL to hear what you've shared with us . . .
"He is doing well in alternative school with a smaller group of students and a teacher that thinks outside of the box." ~ Dianna Doles-Petry
You seem to be just the right person for your foster son. You have him going in the right direction.
LOVE is so POWERFUL, and so many times we forget just how POWERFUL LOVE is when we are dealing with bitterness, depression, and embedded hate in others. All of which have "root" causes.
I love what you've said at the beginning ~ "I see the good inside of him, the part of him that he prefers to keep hidden." ~ Dianna
You know, it is easy to SEE that you look for the "GOOD" in others, and that makes such a BIG DIFFERENCE when helping someone else.
HUGS to you Dianna ~ You're teaching us a lot about the practice of "love" and "insight".
Love is the most powerful medication, the most powerful inspiration, and very often the most powerful motivation.
Thank you for your replies to me. They are appreciated more than you could know. Sometimes I fear that I'm not on the right course but if this young man and I get lost, it won't be because I didn't give 100% of my heart and soul to the effort of finding the right path.
Those hugs are very much appreciated!
The psychology of the mind of young people is a very fascinating area to explore. Every day, people ~ Teachers and care-takers are finding NEW WAYS to handle issues involving youth. There are Therapy Groups for these areas of interest.
We'll be discussing ADHD in Artistic Therapy and OCD this month. We try to touch on the issues that are affecting people.
Your insight will be most helpful Dianna. Everything you said above is useful to everybody dealing with day to day life. Especially what you told us towards the end of what you've shared . . .
"Love is the most powerful medication, the most powerful inspiration, and very often the most powerful motivation." ~ Dianna Doles-Petry
That is SO TRUE!
Keep doing what you're doing Dianna, because you certainly are INSPIRING me in so many ways.
Your Friend,
Rene
I will keep on doing what I do best; giving of myself and reaching out the world around me. I taught my children that to think of only one's self would keep them locked within a small bubble and there is a whole big world out there to explore. We have to reach out in order to branch out. It's worked so far and I think if we all reached out, the world would be a better place.
Have a wonderful day!
Dianna
I love the story you just shared about your foster son, and your talks ending with the HUGS and HERSHEY'S KISSES ~ that is so "touching" ~ I can SEE you two in my mind's eye...LOL...Those little moments mean soooo MUCH!
I like what you said too ~ "You know, if everything was pleasant and easy in this life we would never appreciate the blessings or the accomplishments. Our pain intensifies our pleasure. Our losses help us to cherish our blessings." ~ Dianna Doles-Petry
So TRUE ~ even when WE don't think so at the time of the hardships or loses. Sometimes, in those instances, we will feel sorry for ourselves, or blame God for our disappointments and mishaps. But OH if WE only KNEW!
I'll tell you Dianna, and maybe you and others can relate . . .
When I lost my father, I was so hurt. I had such a darling and inspirational father. The moments before he died, I knew it right away. I looked up to the sky, and I saw the most beautiful sky I had ever seen. I could feel him letting me know I would not see him on this side again. And, he had told me that too, by the way the last time I saw him in the hospital. It was only by the grace of God that I could stand to speak without tears at his funeral. Everyone there was crying. My father had many, many friends and family. A tear is rolling down my face now just thinking of the many ways my father shaped my life for the better. I wish I could have told him so, but I really think that he KNOWS.
Thank you so much for sharing you story with us Dianna. You've done much for me, and probably many others reading this.
BLESSINGS in ABUNDANCE to you my friend ~
Rene
Bring any links that you have on LUCID DREAMING over, or feel free to start up a Discussion over in Dream Depths on it.
HUGS ~
Your Friend,
Rene
GETTING READY for the TALLY NOW!
It's the Members of Artistic Minds® that truly make the Group so exciting ~ there is MUCH TALENT in the Group ~ L O L.
Thanks a lot for your kind words. Have a Great weekend....I'm going on to read your next post . . .
Our God-given talents and creativity are the source of our JOY, and aid us in developing greater self-esteem. When we ignore or deny our "gifts" and "talents" then we have the opposite effect. That is why it is so important to recognize what those "gifts" and "talents" are, and to develop them.
HUGS ~ and THANKS for adding in more insight for us.
You've brought up some very good points and tips. Great post, Rene.
Hugs to you!
Many of us are trying to FOCUS ourselves, or RE-FOCUS ourselves. It may have much to do with the pace of all of the technology that we have to deal with on a day to day basis, and the pressure of it all. Remember the days of "snail mail" ~ l O l ~ now we have instant email, wherein people expect an "instant" response -- all 20,000 of them or so.
I'm going to the next comment box to continue with the topic of JOURNALING ...
"Although I do not journal daily, I do find writing does help especially when I feel out of sorts. I also feel much more focused and "at ease" when I'm taking photographs. It's very relaxing to me." ~ Renda
We are often so immersed in day to day activities, that we have to actually make a concerted effort to JOURNAL. In the morning, or in the evening would be good times to consistently do so. Have a pen and Journal out and near by your favorite spot in the house. It gives you something to be joyful about, even if what is written for that day may not start out that way...you'll find that all negative experiences written down in the Journal appear to dissipate when you go back and read the entry days later. Journals are very therapeutic helps. Journals also help you to "SEE" what is really at the forefront of your mind.
The PHOTOGRAPHY, like all artistic & creative works ~ "painting", "scrapbooking", "singing", "dancing", "writing" -- are soooooo RELAXING.
In those moments when we are creating, we are one with Our Creator.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this Article Renda. I'm always so happy to hear what you share, because I can so identify with you.
HUGS ~
Rene
Writing in a journal definitely takes discipline and I figured out, after writing this morning, that it hasn't been my mood necessarily causing me to be less creative....but my laziness. Yep, that's right...laziness and lack of discipline. All the excuses come down to that fact. I also realize if I spent half the amount of time coming up with excuses as I did actually BEING creative, I would have LOADS of creative works now. So, today is a new day for me.
Yes, I suppose the chaotic pace we keep influences the chaos in our minds too. It's important that we all remember to "slow down" at least for a bit. I like the instant messages to an extent, but the sentimental side of me longs for the handwritten letters we (or at least I) took for granted. I am making a conscious effort this year to hand write at least one letter to my family members. I'm using their birthdays as a starting point and with their birthday card, they are getting a handwritten letter.
It may seem odd, but I consider handwriting a form of art too....and I love doing calligraphy, though it has been some time since I sat down with the ink well and calligraphy tips. I definitely need to get back into that routine too. Maybe I will pen them a letter in calligraphy. Or do their birthday cards in calligraphy.
See, I've gotten long winded now, Rene. LOL. I hope your Sunday is going well and you have a very CREATIVE and HAPPY week.
Hugs to you,
Renda
"Writing in a journal definitely takes discipline and I figured out, after writing this morning, that it hasn't been my mood necessarily causing me to be less creative....but my laziness. Yep, that's right...laziness and lack of discipline. All the excuses come down to that fact. I also realize if I spent half the amount of time coming up with excuses as I did actually BEING creative, I would have LOADS of creative works now. So, today is a new day for me." ~ Renda B.
Well just slap my lazy behind into the right state of mind why don't you Renda ~ ahahahh!
It's a NEW DAY for me too with your words taking shape in my mind and being ~ I'm grabbing my Complete Artist's Way book now!
I'm going to the next comment box to continue responding to the other good input you've added . . .
"Yes, I suppose the chaotic pace we keep influences the chaos in our minds too. It's important that we all remember to "slow down" at least for a bit. I like the instant messages to an extent, but the sentimental side of me longs for the handwritten letters we (or at least I) took for granted. I am making a conscious effort this year to hand write at least one letter to my family members. I'm using their birthdays as a starting point and with their birthday card, they are getting a handwritten letter." ~ Renda B.
You brought out two very important things Renda ~ SLOWING DOWN, and learning to write again the "old-fashioned way"...LONG HAND.
Going to the next comment box . . .
A New Day can be a great thing if we let it. Don't you think? *sending smiles your way*
The "old-fashioned way" is a great way to go when writing, don't you think? I'll be honest, it has been a while since I wrote a lot at one time in one setting. So this morning after I finished my Morning Pages, my hand was a tad sore. Obviously, I gotta whip it into shape too.
I'm looking forward to creating a schedule and having some discipline with my writing. I'm also looking forward to the good things others have to share too.
"Writing in a journal definitely takes discipline and I figured out, after writing this morning, that it hasn't been my mood necessarily causing me to be less creative....but my laziness. Yep, that's right...laziness and lack of discipline. All the excuses come down to that fact. I also realize if I spent half the amount of time coming up with excuses as I did actually BEING creative, I would have LOADS of creative works now. So, today is a new day for me." ~ Renda B.
That's when I was like ~ WoW, I'm obviously just being flat-out lazy! Then I felt really bad, and I picked up my Complete Artist's Way Book to do the studies. Then I got off track and got distracted, I'm sad to report. But, I've been doing my morning pages (I write my DREAMS every morning). I have some very good ones to share too. At least it got me back into the habit of truly focusing on what my DREAMS consist of ~ and the messages they are relaying. I always write my DREAMS out in long-hand, like you were talking about. It helps for the me to do that because the "feeling" and "emotion" of the DREAMS flow better that way through my hands. So YES! to what you said here . . .
"The "old-fashioned way" is a great way to go when writing, don't you think?" ~ Renda B.
And I agree with you on this . . .
"I'm looking forward to creating a schedule and having some discipline with my writing. I'm also looking forward to the good things others have to share too." ~ Renda B.
I'm in the midst of getting more organized. I'm going back up to finish reading where I had left off on what you had shared with us. . . .
I didn't mean to make you feel bad, but hey it worked...LOL. Really though, at least you're doing your morning pages :) That's a plus. I've been doing mine as well. They are very eye opening. I had forgotten (because I'd slacked off writing in a journal daily) how much a daily entry can reveal about ourselves and the influences (people and situations) around us.
As always, Rene, you bring up the best topics for discussion and I always like our conversations. Hope your week is going well. Hugs to you!
I have at least managed to write a couple of NOVELS. [Do you "feel" the "call" Renda?] ...
I was so proud of myself ~ because this LITERARY creative form that many of us possess also has to be nurtured. Like you Renda! You can WRITE really well. And, each year, I'll be tracking you down to do National Novel Writing Month with so many of us from Gather. NaNoWriMo is a BLAST! I'm so glad Jennifer talked me into participating a couple of years ago. It did much for my soul. Jennifer is one really TALENTED cookie! She's so modest, but soooooo "GIFTED"!
And, SPEAKING is another unstoppable side of me. I'm always asked to speak, even when it is not my intention. I'm sure you are a audience grabber too Renda!
Going to the next comment box because I have a habit of writing too much, and then I lose my post ~ YIKES! . . .
Yes, I have felt the calling and my problem is I have started twice on a novel and have yet to finish. It all stems back to taking the time to finish. Know what I mean?
I'm proud of you too, for finishing those two novels, and for the other things you do. You're very talented as well and an inspiration to many. You're right about Jennifer too. She's talented and gifted :) Not only that, but she seems to have a good heart too. That's always a plus.
I can see you as a public speaker and capturing people's attention. As I've said, you have that "motivator" gift about you. That's a good thing and something to be valued. I'm not much of a public speaker....more of a "small" audience or 1 on 1.
Yep, those disappearing posts/comments can be a pain. I have recently learned to copy my comment and/or posts before hitting that submit button. That way if it disappears, I don't have to retype it...LOL.
The first is about WRITING and PHOTOGRAPHY ~ I had mentioned the Morning Pages that Julia Cameron suggests Artists use to get more CREATIVE and unblocked ~ and about keeping a Daily Journal ~ In my case, a DREAM JOURNAL. I had honed in on what you said about your writing and your photography . . .
"I do find writing does help especially when I feel out of sorts. I also feel much more focused and "at ease" when I'm taking photographs. It's very relaxing to me." ~ Renda B.
Great input Renda, because relaxation while doing creative pursuits such as poetics, literary works, painting, song~writing (and even listening to music), web design, interior design, singing, drawing, sculpting, and/or PHOTOGRAPHY like you've said has a way of relaxing the mind, spirit, and comforting the soul. People become tense and jumpy when they are unable to let their creativity flow. So I liked what you said here . . .
" . . .how much a daily entry can reveal about ourselves and the influences (people and situations) around us." ~ Renda B.
Whenever we take the time to JOURNAL our THOUGHTS, and then learn how to interpret their meanings ~ and in some cases, their are many meanings on different levels -- which gets to the DREAM JOURNALS and DREAM INTERPRETATIONS as well, which I know you know, like many others here about how helpful DREAMS can be in figuring out life's little mysteries.
I like HUMOR more than anything Renda ~ when I'm speaking ~ l o l. I don't intend to be funny really, but a lot of the times it comes out that way. I'm probably more motivational and inspiring when I teach. I love teaching ART! -- not that it can really be taught -- a person just has a natural ability to create ~ no matter how they profess otherwise. It's amazing what people can create when they just sit down and try . . . and the same holds true for WRITING and being an AUTHOR ~ L O L . . . I know many in here know what I mean!
I tend to agree, it is amazing what people can do when they set forth the effort. Another problem in the past I've noticed is I've put so much time in trying to LEARN to be creative (i.e. reading books on the topic of interest, looking up things online on the topic, etc) that I've wasted a lot of time. Don't get me wrong, I think it is important to read things on a subject we wish to learn...but I'm more of a "hands on" type person. I learn better by doing and although I KNEW this, I was not DOING it. There have been times I wish I'd just attempted to create instead of reading about it. So when you say: "It's amazing what people can create when they just sit down and try", I certainly can relate. ((smiles))
"People become tense and jumpy when they are unable to create."~ Isn't that the truth?!? However, in my case, you need to add irritable in there too...LOL.
You know the two of us are procrastinators at times, but when WE do a COLLABORATION, WE really DO it UP don't WE! ~ ahahah ~ ROFL! Don't think I've forgotten...we've got MORE COLLABORATIONS IN STORE.
I think what you've shared with us RINGS TRUE with just about all of us . . .
"Another problem in the past I've noticed is I've put so much time in trying to LEARN to be creative (i.e. reading books on the topic of interest, looking up things online on the topic, etc) that I've wasted a lot of time. Don't get me wrong, I think it is important to read things on a subject we wish to learn...but I'm more of a "hands on" type person. I learn better by doing and although I KNEW this, I was not DOING it. There have been times I wish I'd just attempted to create instead of reading about it. So when you say: "It's amazing what people can create when they just sit down and try", I certainly can relate. ((smiles))" ~ Renda B.
I understand EXACTLY what you mean. Except that I love READING ~ LOL. I really do. I love the basics of reading and writing -- now arithmetics ~ that's another story. I'm only good at arithmetics by divine intervention ~ aahhaha! And that has happened on many occasions, and when it did, it blew me away!
Your Hands~On nature is a part of you that comes in handy in so many ways. Nursing is one of those ways...CREATING, another. You're right about hands~on being the BEST way to LEARN anything. When reading about it, you get the idea, and then you revamp the concepts to fit your own style. Reading about it makes you SEE things through someone else's eyes as well, and if you have GOOD VISION, you can really capture what has been relayed, and internalize it, then RESHAPE IT, to make it your OWN...
I can write, and tell someone how I create literary works, tell them what type of pens I use, and how long it takes for me to create a writing, but my hand is different from everyone else's hands. Their hands will create their very OWN UNIQUE STYLES no matter what they have gained from my writings. And so it is with whatever WE READ. We each will take from it what we are meant to gain from it, and it will enrich us in our own unique ways....
Bottom line Renda ~ READING is ENRICHING, and it is never a waste at all. That's my personal view. Even if it seems like you are wasting time -- REMEMBER, what we resist most, is what we NEED MOST.
wink ~ AND ~ HUGS! . . .
I love your ending...
"People become tense and jumpy when they are unable to create."~ Isn't that the truth?!? However, in my case, you need to add irritable in there too...LOL." ~ Renda B.
Ahahahh ~ I "feel you!" . . . I know what you mean.
Those collaborations are definitely something, aren't they? Not only do they allow us to THINK about things, but it also is a great way to see other people's views too. Never dull and I'm looking forward to the next one.
I enjoy reading too, but I can't keep reading about drawing and not actually ATTEMPT it. That too is something else I need to address in Artist's Way (fear). That's a factor that affects me and I'm sure it affects others too.
Yes, I will remember "what we resist most, is what we need most". That is so very true. As are your other words about enrichment through reading and shaping our own techniques. Good advice and reminders you've written, Rene.
By the way, I haven't been so irritable lately...LOL.
I AGREE ~ That would be NICE, because there are a lot of us! Remember our JAVA Crawls ~ ahahh! . . .
And let's not even get into Our COLLABORATIVE Therapy Discussions ~ Those were SO GOOD! You're a MASTER at the "HARD HEARTS"!!! ~ LOL.
Yeah ~ I've got an IDEA for Our next COLLABORATION! FINALLY! I'll email you about it.
I'm with you on the reading ~ need to get to DOING! ~ ahhahah! . . . Even though I LOVE the Book!
The FEAR Factor is something I've been meaning to write about for years ~ Jennifer N. will tell you. I guess I'll just do it! When I went to post it a couple of years ago, it kept blowing out of Gather, and I was so mad I started to just stomp off and never come back ~ ahahha ~ you SEE how far I got {smiles}.
Glad your irritability has cleared up Renda ~ lol ~ mine too! I got rid of some things in my life, and OH what a difference! Things and people bogging up my time, sucking out my energy, and draining the LIFE out of me. It's called "CRAZYMAKERS" in our Book Study. Well, they can be C r A z Y all by theirselves ~ ahahha! BUSY~BODIES of NOTHINGNESS...that's what I call them. I had never seen anything like it before in my life, and I thought I fell into the Alice in Wonderland Zone. Just Crazy! Glad to have your NEW Gather Group around ~ right on time!
HUGS ~
Rene
Rene, I did not know you'd tried to post something about the fear factor and will be really interested in reading it. So, uh...get to posting...LOL. I completely understand how frustrating it can be when your post gets lost in cyberspace! Frustrating and aggravating.
I'm waiting on your email about the collaboration too. I'm looking forward to it. As for the group, I will email you about that.
Isn't amazing how a little "spring cleaning" can make your irritability disappear. Crazymakers....yes, I can see that. One of my other Gather friends on her had another term that I LOVED...."Energy Vampires". Doesn't that terminology just sing? LOL. I'm glad you've gotten rid of those things and people that were getting to you! And I agree with your "they can be crazy all by theirselves".
I scanned a bit of the comments here and can relate to many of them.. one made me giggle, though.
I'm so glad Jennifer talked me into participating a couple of years ago. It did much for my soul. Jennifer is one really TALENTED cookie! She's so modest, but soooooo "GIFTED"! Can I be chocolate chip, please? No! Better yet those delectable sugar cookies that are loaded with frosting, sprinkles and soft as ever. Yeah, that's the cookie I want to be. ;)
Seriously, though. I just believe in the event and wanted to share it with others. I'm so glad that you, too are hooked on the event. :)
Jen ~ YES, "THE FEAR FACTOR" is a MUST DO! Good thing we are doing your Book Study ~ It is truly HELPFUL. [Jen, you know you crack me up with the "comment stalking") ~ hahah! You are so funny. I don't know how you manage to keep up with me and my comments, I can't keep up with myself!
But, YES, I'm going to do an Article on "THE FEAR FACTOR". I know you'll have a lot to say about it, and so will everyone else.
Going to the next comment box before I lose this comment like Renda lost hers yesterday . . .
And, Renda ~ This COLLABORATION might work really well if the three of us work together on it -- You, me and Jen. Because Jen really inspired me to write it in the first place, and it was SO GOOD! Then ZAP! Gather ate it, and that was before I knew how to copy before pressings "Submit". I was so MAD, I tell you I was going to leave. Jen will tell you. That kept happening every time I was going to post it and other things for Jen. I wished I could get it back in my mind the way I had written it, but it blew out of my head, and I never write things down. I just TYPE.
Now about this, "Energy Vampires" ~ ahhaha ~ I call them "Spiritual Vampires", because there is such a thing, and they suck the LIFE out of you, and hinder your divine path (if you let them). They are dead and life-less souls that feed off of those who have LIFE, ENERGY, JOY, and a divine Mission. They usually come through those who are closest to you. These Spiritual Vampires are not the people, they are demonic spirits working through people to get to you or whomever is on the right track.
But I do like your friends terminology ~ it does SING ~ "ENERGY VAMPIRES" -- Let's just SLAM THE DOOR on them! Hahhahah! Because we all know that we need ALL of our ENERGY ~ LOL....
I'm going to the next comment box to pick up on what Jen was saying about them...
Jen ~ You're right about the Psychic Vampires...the physical, emotional, and spiritual drain that they cause. You know, I'm going to look around here for the book I have on it too Jen and Renda and everyone reading. It is a REALLY GOOD Book too! I have several actually -- One good book to read is "THE HANDBOOK FOR SPIRITUAL WARFARE by Dr. Ed Murphy" ~ The REVISED and UPDATED version. I used it in the Ministry for reference. When I find my other books on this topic around here, I'll let you all know if you're interested.
Jen ~ What's the name of the book you read on this topic? I've walked through it enough ~ I need to write a book on it myself.
And, YES Jen ~ I'm hooked on the Book Study. I've been reading away! Doing my TASKS and ALL. Coming back over to the Study tonight!
The book I read on it was a vampire book. I think it was called Vampires Among Us. It's on my bookshelf and I'll check soon to make sure that's the right name of it. I'm off to bed now, Gideon's home sick again and I'll need my rest to keep him busy/happy tomorrow. :)
I posted the tasks up for each week. Now to finish DOING them. ;-)
The Sugar cookie has left the post.
*snicker*
I didn't make it into the Book Study last night, but will TODAY.
I'm looking at the intentional plane crash that happened today, and the plane that is being HELD because of a threatening note on the plane.
It's MAYHEM day ~ Where's Renda? Her Group will be hopping TODAY!
Renda's been in the book study a lot. She'll be looking for you in a minute I'm sure, lol!
Energy Vamps, Spiritual Vamps, Psy. Vamps....yes I can see all of those. Whatever we choose to call them, we shouldn't allow them to suck us dry and I agree Rene..."we just need to slam the door on them"! I'm trying my best to steer clear of them. I'm also going to look into the book mentioned above by Rene. Also, Jen, did you look to see the title to the book you have. I never have enough books. *smiles*
A Collaboration by The Three Sisters....yes, that will work. Speaking of The Three Sisters, go check this out. I am looking forward to doing the collaboration with you both. It should be interesting, fun, and enlightening. So, when are we starting? Don't forget to copy first, Rene!
Ahhhh, ooohhhh *admiring the power of the comment appearing*. Yes, a more powerful server is needed. We can't very well carry Cookie everywhere to ensure our comments reappear quickly...LOL.
Rene, I saw the mayhem today. I have got to get over to my group to see if anyone posted anything about it. Insanity, I tell you! And then I expect you both to check in *snapping whip again*...LOL.
Hope you both have a wonderful night.
Okay, now that they know I'm sure they'll get right on that one, right?
I double checked and the title is right. Vampires Among Us by Rosemary Ellen Guiley. No idea how much is real or not but there's Psychic Vampires and Dream Vampires in there among other things. It was a fun read as a teenager.
I'm not sure this cookie had anything to do with it. I think I just spooked it by throwing a tantrum in public. I called it out on eating my comment and it had to make me look like a liar.
Yay! Rene, do you see that? Jen has agreed to do the collaboration too! Woot.
You're very welcomed for the title. There's a section in there on Dream Vampires too. Don't remember reading that, but I did read it when I was still in school, so it was a while ago.
Of course I've agreed. Why wouldn't I? *grin*
WHEW ~ WHOOO for the COLLABORATION you two. We'll get it together for next month -- how about that? I think it will better to take off then. There is another Snippets CHALLENGE this month you know. {smiles ~ I love those CHALLENGES!}. I don't want to get too stressed ~ The Book Study is AWESOME!
I'm going to check out the LINKS you two have put here, and the book you mentioned Jen. Then I'll find the other book I was talking about and tell you both the name and author ~ although I think that Jen already has it, and probably lots of other people reading this post. It is very popular.
SEE you all later on this evening ~ look for my Book Study comments!
Rene, I can understand you not wanting to get stressed....so just whenever you get ready. I'm looking forward to the Snippets challenge coming up!
You guys enjoy your evening.
Getting back over to Snippets today ~ LOL.
You're such a doll! I'm glad you like the "heart". I hope you share with us some of the ways you use your "artistic talents". You're pretty C r E a T i V e...Do tell.
Whatever you've shared in the Group will be FEATURED, and I'll let you know when it is UP! There is so much GOOD STUFF in the Group, that it takes me a while to SEE all of it.
Would you please keep us all posted on what you've shared above ~ "I am working on putting together a back to the land community for Artists and other creative people." ~ conchodebbie
HOW TIMELY! I'm interested in what you have to say on this topic. Please don't forget to let me know MORE!
Do you have photos of your raised beds yet? This is going to be so nice to SEE how you progress with your spring planting!
{I'll probably be waiting until the cows come home from California with you out there in the water like that ~ ahahah!}
And I'm not out on the water now, I wish; I'm in cold Melrose, MA :)
Cold Melrose, MA? Okay, well...that's not all bad you know. I really like MASSACHUSETTS. It's a wonderful place.
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY, and you can WISH to be wherever you desire ~ and chances are ~ you'll be there!
HUGS ~
Your Friend,
Rene
It's definitely a one-of-a-kind place.
So old (lots of history), but so new (cutting edge education, medicine, and financial institutions).
Home of the Kennedy's, Aerosmith, and "Mahhky Mahhk" (now known as Mark Wahlberg)
Definitely one-of-a-kind...E
I can be a stickler for grammar :)
You're in a wonderful place Elliot.
And Mark Wahllberg is an awesome ACTOR!
I like all his movies.
I remember a comedian was doing a bit about what if the whole Kennedy accent was made up?
He said what if they were sitting around, smoking joints one night, and someone said, "Hey ehh, wouldn't it be funny ehh, if we all ehh, started talking like this all the time? Hey Bobby, you try it..."
I gotta remember the comedian's name, it was funny as hell though. Because when you think of it, NO ONE else really talks exactly like that, whether they're from Mass. or not.
About Wahlberg, he has been in some good stuff. He was memorable in "The Departed", etc.
But I dunno about liking ALL his movies.
Have you seen "Four Brothers"? :)
Anyway, hope things are well...E
I didn't SEE "Four Brothers", but I loved "Shooter!"
Thanks a lot for coming back and making me laugh today! I hope you're having a wonderful weekend!
Like I said, I heard a comedian do that joke about the Kennedys, so I can't take credit for that.
I must have Kennedys on the brain; I watched an "American Experience" PBS special on them recently.
What a story! Hollywood couldn't make stuff up any better.
Didn't see "Shooter", but yeah, if you haven't seen "Four Brothers", DON'T.
I have a brother who likes horrible movies, and I sat through that one on DVD a few years back.
It's amazing the amount of money studios spend on ABSOLUTELY ABYSMAL movies. Even horrible movies are expensive, relatively speaking. I just saw "CB4" on Cable a few nights ago...WHEW...
About my wknd, thanks, I'll try and have some fun.
Right now I'm sitting on my couch making Gather posts; doesn't get much better than this, huh? :)
I saw that Kennedy PBS Special ~ it was EXCELLENT! And you're right -- what a LIFE that all had.
I heard that "Four Brothers" was good -- NO?
So the WHEW about CB4 means you liked it ~ ahahah!
Yeah ~ Making the Gather posts are very therapeutic you know ~ LOL...
Keep clicking those keys ~
You have a take on something, you post it, and you find out others feel the same way, or don't. Either way, you feel like you've been heard.
Everyone wants validation :) ...E
Very helpful.
Btw, my daughter that married a BPD ... every time we'd talk we would discuss the fact that the descriptions on the net must be made up by doctors that hadn't really lived with one. They seemed to leave out the most important parts. I kept saying I should write one myself.
Then we learned, how many people have more than one condition. Our sweet little son in law is also psychopathic. Yep, when we read the two of them together there it is!
They are 7 mos into their divorce proceedings. They are making them have psychological testing, including the child to determine where the child goes. We're not worried about that. The police chief called Amy and told her to be sure her attorney subpoenas him and one of his officers. They are anxious to tell how he's acted when they've come to his house the last 2 or 3 times.
It is really important to receive feedback, because it helps everyone. I like my friends who take the time to respond back to their friends on Gather that support what they have to say. YOU are definitely one of those "friends" Glome, and I really appreciate having you as a friend. I hope you KNOW that.
And, about BPD (Behavior Personality Disorder), I know what you mean about writing your own description of living with someone with BPD, or knowing someone with BPD, or working with someone with BPD.
Speaking of psychopathic individuals ~ that is a topic that needs to be discussed more! Tons of those types running around wrecking havoc all over the place!
I'm going to the next comment box to continue responding to you, and because there is another book that is out that we're going to be having a Book Study on in Artistic Therapy at the end of this month . . . "Say Goodbye to your PDI (Personality Disordered Individual)" by Stan Kapuchinski, M.D.
More to say to you Glome . . .
Glome ~ You've mentioned "psychological testing". I think every person getting married should have psychological testing. I'm telling you, you never KNOW WHO you are marrying. People get married, and THINK they KNOW who they are marrying, and then they get married and find out that they were sadly mistaken. Personally, I think this is 80 percent of the marriages that take place. DIVORCE STATISTICS prove this to be TRUE. But that's a whole nother area for DISCUSSION.
I'm praying that ALL will go well with your daughter. You've shared a lot with us in our discussions on BPD, and we are ever so thankful.
The PDI Book Study talks about recognizing people who make you MISERABLE and how to ELIMINATE them from you life for Good!
I think you'll enjoy it. It will be posted in Artistic Therapy on the 20th of FEBRUARY!
Come back here, and add more, and hopefully, you'll be in the PDI Discussion!
Most, I'm sure you know, psychopaths aren't murderers as people think. They are big business men, legislators, the man next door and people that just show up from nowhere etc.
He was slick. He told everyone in town she went out on him all the time but he loved her so he just put up with it ... in his sweet little pitiful but brave attitude. Gag! He is always sweetly turning everybody against each other also. Causing division everywhere
They all believed him for a long time, then little by little they began to catch his lies. The grocery store, the filling station the drug store, the police, the neighbors all began to approach Amy. He wanted her separated from everyone. Then his screaming fits night and day with BPD ... they are opposite personalities.
The psychologist said it would have taken months for them to recognize his problems except each attorney was allowed to send one sheet of comments by the spouse. I guess both conditions can be hard to detect.
Anyway, thanks for all rene, I'm looking forward to the study.
Women included too Glome. I've seen enough of them running around...
PSYCHOPATHS basically are people with antisocial personality disorder, and it manifests itself in aggressive, perverted, or criminal behavior. They have no empathy nor remorse.
My theory is that PSYCHOPATHS have demonic spirits. In fact, my theory is that every mental illness is related to demonic spirits. WHY do I say this? Because using your spiritual sight, you can SEE them. If you have ever seen a person who has absolutely NO LIGHT ~ I mean NONE, you are dealing with a person who has basically been possessed -- FULLY. Or, they are on the verge of DEATH. Then, there are those who wax and wane from a little peek of light to absolutely BLACKNESS wherein their entire facial structure changes. In some, you can see no features ~ no face. They have lost hold of their soul.
You've also mentioned "division". Those who cause division I have no use for. They aren't hard to spot either. Many of those people have very "jealous" and "envious" hearts. Some of them are so "hateful" and "unforgiving" that it literally "eats" away at them.
It is one thing to have anger (rightfully placed anger), and then it is another thing to have RAGE and ANGER that you ACT upon. Or to be so DESTRUCTIVE with your behavior pattern that it KILLS/DESTROYS everything in your life -- people, relationships, trust, joy . . .
GOOD points you've brought up Glome. You KNOW the TRUTH always comes to the LIGHT, and people who are hurting others cannot hide behind a smiling face and lies for long.
The "screaming fits" are characteristic of those with BPD. And, if you are ever around someone like this, and you really LISTEN with your "spiritual ear" ~ They sound like imps from hell. It is a screeching, horrid sound. And their outbursts linger in the air, over the phone, anywhere where they've been. The vibrations are toxic. They tend to bring about the spirit of "depression" and "despair" with them...MELANCHOLY souls.
NEW STUDY on PDI coming up in Artistic Therapy before month end -- I know that all the Members will really be able to get into this Study too. Everybody will be able to identify with it in some way.
HUGS Glome ~ I love hearing what you have to share with us!
Have you read "the Complete Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron? If you haven't, you really should get it ~ You'll love the book! In fact, from the sounds of what you've just said, your whole family will love the book. Do get it!
There is nothing "strange" about those who are "artistic", "creatives", "gifted", "TALENTED" . . . even though some people try to make them out to be that way ~ like the people who tell you that you have a "strange kid". They are probably projecting ~ {smiles} ~ divine souls that bring joy and learning of a different vein to others should be gladly welcomed into this dark and dismal world that we live in today.
Do you keep a JOURNAL Veronica? Have you written any books? Published or not yet, have you started writing down all of your characters and their attributes?
Love to hear back from you!
We'd love to hear MORE from you!
When the two parts have different ideas about something, the individual acts in a confused manner. An intelligent, artistic person relies on the subconscious to deliver the ideas and answers and if those intuitive answers are different than what that person has been taught, he may appear to act insane.
A less intelligent/intuitive person is not confused with messages from his subconscious and is quite happy to believe whatever he has been taught. Dumb people fit into little pigeon holes and do what they are told. Bright people get into trouble because they know when they are being given a snow job.
Hard work assures success. Wealthy people deserve what they have. Stay in school and get a good job. The Government has good leaders who will look after us. Nothing is going to change. Poor people should not own houses.......I could go on for hours. If you are smart enough to see what is not right and you try to correct it, you will be labelled insane. You are screwing up a system that has worked will for as long as we can remember.
However, we are on the verge of what is known as a paradigm shift. Something will set it off. Perhaps someone will build a net zero energy home as energy prices rise and jobs become scarce. Overnight that home becomes very desirable (read valuable) and EVERYTHING presently built becomes dramatically less valuable. Talk about housing bubble, you aint seen nothing yet. It will happen, and it will not be gradual. When it happens, there will be a lot of sane people walking around like zombies because their world will be very confusing for them. Most of us loonies can see it coming.
"Everyone has a subconscious brain that comes preprogrammed with all kinds of stuff that keeps the body functioning and a conscious part that learns a bunch of stuff which makes us think who we are...When the two parts have different ideas about something, the individual acts in a confused manner. An intelligent, artistic person relies on the subconscious to deliver the ideas and answers and if those intuitive answers are different than what that person has been taught, he may appear to act insane." ~ Lou
Very interesting thoughts Lou. I'd like to address this part of your initial thoughts...
"An intelligent, artistic person relies on the subconscious to deliver the ideas and answers and if those intuitive answers are different than what that person has been taught, he may appear to act insane." ~ Lou
Just speaking for myself, I think that I am an intelligent person, and I am certainly artistic, but I rely on Spirit not my "subconscious" to deliver ideas and answers. What I have been taught is an aside, because Spirit trumps all, and is never wrong.
Going to the next comment box to continue . . .