When I wake up in the mornings, the weight of the world is on my shoulders. I have battled depression all my life. I have a few little traditions that I stick with to help me change my attitude for the day. I always have delicious coffee in the morning. I sip it while I look outside to see what is going on in the neighborhood. I open the living room curtains to let the sunlight in. I continue sipping it as I read a very short devotional. I read it multiple times, in order for the content to sink into my brain. I get all my vitamins and meds into one of those cute little containers that you can put in your purse. Mine is decorated with tiny pineapples, of all things. I do this because I have to take a lot of medicine. I have chronic conditions that are high maintenance. It gets boring just draggin down my medicine bag every single day. Depressing, too. So, I have discovered that this way, I can slip it into my purse and take it a little bit at a time, as I please. I suppose it allows me a bit of control. That is important, I think, when battling depression. I pray, I practice meditation and mindfulness. I lay out my colorful, Bohemian type clothing, then I shower. All the while, I am relaxing in the presence of the Spirit of the Universe, which I like to call the Holy Spirit. Without beating anyone over the head, with the Bible or any other spiritual resource, I am happier when I think that Someone out there loves me. He knows my name. And even though I have been through a lot in this life, there is still a reason for my being here. And my plan is to spend as much time as I can loving on other people who are going through a lot. People need hope, and I know for sure it is out there. Helping others helps me. You are unique and have gifts that only you can use in your sphere of influence. Keep trying, and keep hoping. I do believe it will get better for you.

In the past mornings were my best time. Now it would be nice to just not wake up.

I am also endeavoring that someone somewhere loves me and not the place I live, the kind of car I drive, the way I eat, the clothes I wear and not ask me what I am taking because I present with a smile, politeness and respect. I rarely see my own grandson because of these things. I pay my own bills, I care for myself, I still have my own car and still I am trash to some. I certainly do NOT go on vacation with my son, his wife and children!! I would not even think of doing such!!!!!

@mamasitalucita
What very helpful words, @mamasitalucita. You acknowledge the difficulties you have in the mornings, however, you tell us how you turn your feelings around with certain activities that bring you comfort and that also comfort others. Thank you for those great ideas! Teresa