In recent years I’ve learnt that standing up and saying: “I am…” is incredibly liberating. Not only for myself – but also for the many who suffer in silence, or cower in shadows.
Like Jack Nicholson as The Joker in Batman – we need to give a name to our pain. For in giving it a name, we take away the mystery and the fear of the unknown. The answer to overcomming our fears, or obstacles, lies in the name as well.
Here are the names I’ve taken ownership of thusfar:
1) I am Afrikaans. It is my heritage and my reality. I am not scared of that name.
2) I am Protestant. I do not denounce other forms of worship, but I do not identify with them either.
3) I am Gay and I’m fine with it.
4) My mom has cancer. We’re in it together – for Life!
Today I realised that I have more to bring to the table. That there is another name in my back pack to share with the world:
5) I’m Bipolar (type 1).
I know others are out there – and I’m here to say: “We’re cool”.
Good night kids,
W
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