Comment by Lee on 06 Jul 2009 at 12:36 am

Karen,

How are you handling living in the real world with an economy of so many depressed people? Without alters would you say it’s easier or harder to live? Any regrets on integration or sharing your story?

Lee

Dear Lee,

Handling reality has been more challenging than I had thought it would be.  True, the economy has taken a turn for the worse, and yes, I am affected by the many people who are down and out and suffering.  In my work with people everyday, I’ve had my share of hearing many sad stories, but for each sad story there is a truly inspirational and remarkable story that leads me to believe in the greater good of living in the real world.

Multiplicity had its advantages along with many disadvantages.  The only good that multiplicity brought me was to be able to temporarily take away an immediate trauma.  Of course, I had to deal with the consequences once I was able to “feel” the pain after integration.  Therefore, life without alters is definitely easier.  My alters caused chaos within me, despite the reason they were born, which was to help me survive.  For me to live, integration was a must.  I needed to be one.

Do I regret sharing my story?  Sometimes.  I do, however, feel encouraged to continue to share my story in hope to help others through their own journey.  Sharing is hard, although the good definitely out weighs the bad.  I would share my story again.  I do not regret that.  Sharing is caring.

Thank you for your questions,

Karen