Why Now
Have you ever felt like you have a calling, like there is something you are supposed to do? I had this feeling; it had been stirring for quite a while until a series of events happened and I realized that the timing was finally right. You see, I found myself in the emergency room early one morning and the Doctor (a Liverpool fan) had looked me in the eyes and asked if I had wanted to give up. In that moment, I knew I wasn’t done yet.
Often feeling overwhelmed I started making posts on Facebook – talking about mental health. I would receive dozens of messages from “friends” indicating how they could relate, and it made me wonder why we just don’t talk about it.
Why is it we glorify the diet pill for those losing weight, yet we vilify those seeking help (by way of therapy or medication) with mental illness. I just don’t get it. On my Podcast we’ve discussed this very thing, I believe it is why some of us choose to isolate ourselves vs speaking up. We need to change the dialogue; we must do better.
If the “normal” folks aren’t going to step up for us, then we need to do it ourselves.
Letters to/from the Lost
As part of the Shedding Your Story project that was launched in 2023, this mailbox was erected to allow those dealing with not only mental health challenges but also the ups and downs of daily life in a safe, anonymous space — let go.
These journals are meant to safeguard our secrets, our joys, and our heartaches.
We have often felt that those traveling the trail are searching for something. A walk on the trail, no matter the season, brings a stillness. It allows us to be in the present even if for just a few moments.
Over the years we have watched children grow, pets age gracefully, and the healing that takes place between animals and humans. This place brings us back from the day and encourages us to lean in to tomorrow.
We welcome you to take part in this project by speaking (writing) your truth and/or sharing messages of hope for those that may be struggling.
Mailbox can be found on the fence line of Our Someday Farm in Vinton, VA along the Wolf Creek Greenway.