Comment by Loretta on 21 Sep 2009 at 9:21 pm

Dear Karen,

Thank you for bringing hope to me when I was in the hospital for depression. A friend of mine brought me the book about you. I honestly thought it not a good choice for a depressed person but did read it after one of the counselors said it was okay. I was near the end of a one month hospitalization. I thought what the heck at least I’m still in the hospital if I relapse. What a ride your story put me on. Thank God I was in the hospital because I went from a basket case to gaining more courage than ever thought imaginable. All in two days. I love your ability to overcome so much. My past abuse was one fifth of what you dealt with. You inspire me. I am home and dealing with reality. It’s hard work but if you could do it so can I.

I watch tv a lot while I am healing. Besides Oprah, do you like any other shows? A question for you. In all that you know of survival and having the spirit to survive what actress has inspired you to laugh and get over yourself? What makes you feel good? Would you be interested in meeting the actress most likely to have helped you get through tough times? Who makes you laugh?

Loretta

Detroit, MI

Dear Loretta,

You’re welcome! I know what it’s like to be hospitalized for depression. I was hospitalized twice. During my hospitalizations I also dreamt of having hope to succeed and make it through the horror I felt.

Abuse is abuse and it doesn’t matter how many times an abusive act was performed. What matter’s most is to accept what happened and try to move forward. Dealing with one’s past pain is not only difficult but is a life long process. Seeking help is the best way we can heal. I hope my journey didn’t take you on too much of an emotional ride triggering your past pain, but I’m glad that you kept reading and found courage from my story. That’s very important to me.

Regarding my favorites…

I love many shows but rarely get the chance to watch television. When I do, I enjoy shows like “Bones”, “Fringe”, ” Lie to Me,” and most medical shows that challenge my thoughts. I also love romantic movies that bring laughter and beauty to complex relationships. That love-hate, tug and pull that tap my every emotion are the best. I love movies like “Under the Tuscan Sun”, “Mama Mia,” and hundreds more. Sometimes I enjoy documentaries, “Dancing With the Stars,” and art shows, too! I guess there’s just too many to list here. I love variety, a little bit of everything, but not too much of anything.

Who is someone that inspired me and kept me laughing at the same time? I would have to say Whoopi Goldberg. Why? Because she is real. She never cares what anyone thinks, she’s not afraid to say what’s on her mind, and has her own voice. Whoopi has an aura that shouts, “If you can’t accept me for who I am, that’s your problem.” During a time when I felt severely depressed, ugly, unlovable, and strange, Whoopi’s never-dying spirit seemed to bring me back to life. She made me laugh. I rarely have the opportunity to really laugh and be me, and indirectly she helped restore my sanity.  I’m not sure why but I would love to meet her someday.

I agree, healing is hard work for everyone! Please have faith and your healing will continue.

Karen