As a worker in an American commune, I couldn’t seem to work fast enough or learn valuable work skills. I radically injured myself trying to work too hard.
My self-esteem was in shambles, and I was depressed. I had to leave the commune, losing all my friends, my place to live, and my ability to work. Right away I was catapulted into the manic phase of bipolar disorder. I wound up in a state mental hospital, where under duress I came down to earth. I was released and went to live in my home town with my mother. I was spiritually lost and depressed, even after getting saved by Jesus Christ and a life-threatening illness when I first returned home. After years of medicated recovery passed, I began to write poetry, spiritual poetry. I had found my niche, my vocation. Writing poetry was kept me out of trouble, and was therapeutic and fulfilling, and gave me pleasure when I shared the poems with friends who liked them. I taught myself to pray through writing poetry, and now I find fulfillment in a rich life with my girlfriend and my writing. My material needs have been provided by what I call “The Source”, as well as Social Security disability for bipolar disorder and retirement, for all of which I owe great debts of gratitude.
How has your life been changed as a result of your ordeal?
I lost my ability to do most any work with my hands, but was blessed enough to get a computer on which I write my poems and save them. So my injury was one of the best and worst things that ever happened to me. And I am blessed to be very stable on psychotropic medication. I’m happy!
What would you advise another facing similar circumstances based on what you have learned?
Perseverance furthers, and Holy Spirit is real. Copping to the Holy One is crucially essential. Being nice to ladies is of invaluable help. Sources of inspiration can help very much, too. You could find out what you do best and like most to do, and find a way to contribute with that to the well-being of others. And that will help you to be happy!
Would you share a bit about yourself?
I’m 66 years old in 2016, somewhat physically disabled, and very much in love with a wonderful lady friend, for 29 years as of this writing. I love to write and share poetry.
