11 Comments
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Patricia's avatar

Yes. Right now I am studying ancient civilizations. I find it surprising that we know somewhat how these civilizations struggled and lived in fear of constant wars. After all this time, we still have not learned how to live together in peace.

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Melissa Makarewicz's avatar

So sad… but fascinating

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Patricia's avatar

Thank you Melissa. I started taking online courses on subjects that I did not have time for because of career and raising a family. Now at age 78 and retired I am enjoying these courses more than I thought possible. self care is very important.

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Melissa Makarewicz's avatar

Thank you for sharing, Patricia. It’s also so important to never stop learning. I think it also fuels are creativity. Do you have a favorite course topic you’ve taken lately?

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Stephen Bondar's avatar

Same here. I was an only son, so same shit, pardon my language; take care of everybody's problems but your own. That's why I'm finally writing and getting stories out now, as I enter my seventh decade. Me, I hit the bottle really hard, but have now been sober nearly eight years. But I had no problem asking for professional help, and getting it, in the form of mental health professionals. Also, being brutally honest and open, pharmaceuticals, properly prescribed. I am on both anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs. And they work. They allow me to breathe and be me for whatever time I have left to accomplish my goals. But yes, long ago, there was a time that if the phone rang, especially at night, my heart nearly blew out of my chest.

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Melissa Makarewicz's avatar

Life is a wild ride, and we should always get the help we need… whatever form that may come in (as long as it’s not harmful). I’m not glad you can relate to the phone, but it does make me feel less alone to have messages from others who know exactly what I’m talking about. I hope you have a great day!

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Stephen Bondar's avatar

You too!

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Tracey's avatar

I had a similar experience with phone calls. It was horrible at the time how triggering hearing my phone ring could be. Years later, this has passed. Thank you for sharing.

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Melissa Makarewicz's avatar

Thank you for making me feel less alone. It’s wild when you realize how much your brain does automatically because it thinks it’s protecting you. I’m glad you are past it now. ❤️

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Sarah Vacchiano's avatar

I needed this so much (got teary). Thank you for this <3

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Melissa Makarewicz's avatar

🥹 I’m so glad it found you.

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