Several of my dearest friends have been going through various trials and tribulations lately. Like much of the world, they're struggling. Hard.
As someone who's long been known as a bit of a "fixer," I've had to face a difficult reality: I'm struggling too. While working on “fixing” myself, I’m learning to walk a new and very fine line. That includes putting on my own oxygen mask first.
I’m learning how to be there for the people I love without losing myself in the process. I’m learning how to offer support without taking on burdens that aren’t mine to carry.
Thankfully, with the help of some sage advisors and a gifted therapist, I'm finally learning a few lessons and putting guardrails in place to help me avoid some of my biggest pitfalls.
After a great deal of thought, care, and more than a few difficult conversations, I'm beginning to find a path forward, one that allows me to support the people I care about while also taking care of myself.
Sorry to be vague, but I'm a protective (and proud) mama (and papa) bear. Nobody messes with my dears, nears, and/or queers without risking having their face eaten. So out of respect for everyone's privacy and mental health, the details of them and their struggles will remain private.
Me? I’m as open a fucking book as I know how to be.
For better and worse.
Got questions? I got answers.
What I will share is this: acceptance and kindness matter more than we often realize.
Most people are carrying struggles we can’t see and know nothing about. So a little patience, a little compassion, and a little grace can make all the difference. Not just for strangers, but for our families, our friends, and ourselves.
And while you’re extending all that acceptance and kindness to others, please don’t forget to extend those gifts to yourself too, boo.
Thank you for doing your part to make the world a little more livable and a lot more lovable.
I hope you and yours feel seen, supported, and loved despite whatever challenges you're facing. And if you're struggling, please don't do it alone.
Keep calm and keep it together!
Clint 🌈✌️
P.S. If you or someone you know is going through it, help is available 24/7/365:
US/Canada: 988 (988 Lifeline)
UK/Ireland: 116 123 (Samaritans)
Australia: 13 11 14 (Lifeline)
New Zealand: 1737 (New Zealand Telehealth Services)
Worldwide Directory @ Befrienders Worldwide
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06-10 = Dustin Lance Black (1974- ) = American filmmaker 🌈
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MAN CRUSHES OF THE DAY
“The world is twice as crazy as it’s ever been.”
Maurice Sendak
“If you do something with acceptance and kindness, you can create a true friendship.”
Dustin Lance Black
The practice of giving blessings and bearing pain begins with oneself. (Meaning, the work of love and compassion begins at home.) --from teachings of Atisha, an 11th century Buddhist sage. All language approximate, otherwise there's not enough room here to say anything that makes any sense at all.
Nobody escapes suffering, even if it appears they have. It's hard to keep any boundaries at all: firm but permeable ones are an accomplishment to aspire to.
🫂🫂🫂 to you and all you care for. Regards DougT