sometimes surrendering to helplessness in the face of a loved one's struggles is the only way to help. and it doesn't mean giving up — it can be an act of love
Gut-wrenching, Jeff. The distinction of surrendering to helplessness not being the same as giving up is powerful and essential. When the ghosts whisper - thank them and return to what you know deep down, that you did your best.
I might be THE one person you help, as I have a loved one who is somewhere in the middle innings contending with bipolar disease.
Thank you for finding it within yourself to write this.
…this was a tough read Jeff, but these things aren’t easy…seeing a lot of suffering in the world and i don’t see it slowing down…it is important to talk about these feelings…thanks for sharing your stories and wishing the best for your friend and her family…
This is powerful. As someone who has been the ill person, it is very good for me to read the other side of the story. I see what you have written here in the people who love me most.
Carra and I have been discussing your article and our frustration with the families that seemingly did nothing. Carra even cornered Spencer at the River and told him he needed professional help. The helplessness you describe we experienced.
I am stunned by this piece and its clarity and coherence on such a difficult and personal subject. I will certainly try to carry the meaning of it with me. So important.
i appreciate you sharing your stories and i believe they matter. my deepest condolences for your brother's passing, and i wish your friend a road out of the darkness.
Prayers indeed for those who suffer. Thanks Jeff.
Thanks Rick 🙏
Gut-wrenching, Jeff. The distinction of surrendering to helplessness not being the same as giving up is powerful and essential. When the ghosts whisper - thank them and return to what you know deep down, that you did your best.
I might be THE one person you help, as I have a loved one who is somewhere in the middle innings contending with bipolar disease.
Thank you for finding it within yourself to write this.
Thanks James, means a lot!
…this was a tough read Jeff, but these things aren’t easy…seeing a lot of suffering in the world and i don’t see it slowing down…it is important to talk about these feelings…thanks for sharing your stories and wishing the best for your friend and her family…
🙏🙏
This is powerful. As someone who has been the ill person, it is very good for me to read the other side of the story. I see what you have written here in the people who love me most.
Thanks so much Stephen. Your validation means a lot.
Carra and I have been discussing your article and our frustration with the families that seemingly did nothing. Carra even cornered Spencer at the River and told him he needed professional help. The helplessness you describe we experienced.
Thanks John, I appreciate that. The point of the essay is that sometimes there’s nothing anyone really can do.
I am stunned by this piece and its clarity and coherence on such a difficult and personal subject. I will certainly try to carry the meaning of it with me. So important.
Thanks so much Drake. Means a lot. This one was tough to write - had to excavate a lot to figure out what I was really trying to say.
i appreciate you sharing your stories and i believe they matter. my deepest condolences for your brother's passing, and i wish your friend a road out of the darkness.
Thanks so much Christin