Relationships

Why I deleted my Facebook account

"garbage blues" © S. H., 2006. CC BY-ND 2.0.
garbage blues” © S. H., 2006. CC BY-ND 2.0.
A grand total of fifty-six days. That’s how long I lasted on Facebook this time around. Much longer than my previous nineteen hours, but not as long as I’d had it before my year-plus absence. It was just long enough to figure out that I don’t want to go back ever again.

It wasn’t even the fight between my in-laws and best friend that did it, though I’m sure everyone will debate that for awhile. But, no, the thing that gets under my skin about the website is how much communication it enables, but how little is delivers. Continue reading →

Autobiography

How to build a family

"high-five" © Martin Fisch, 2012. CC BY-SA 2.0.
high-five” © Martin Fisch, 2012. CC BY-SA 2.0.

My father knows how to hold a silence—just like his brother did—with tenderness and purpose. I come from a long line of gentlemen whose brains are always churning. Careful with each word they choose. They all share the same quiet, but ever-present engagement and a slow southern saunter. Their toes turn out and their chests lift up.

My mother overflows with excitement easy. An enthusiasm she shares with her sisters. All the women in my family are passionate in everything they do and quick to a plethora of emotions. We laugh easy, hurt with deep intensity, and understand the importance of hugs. Both how to give them well and with what frequency.
Continue reading “How to build a family”

Mental Health

Trahere

"'Starry Night'...The Rains of Isaac Falling" © Viewminder, 2012. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
‘Starry Night’…The Rains of Isaac Falling” © Viewminder, 2012. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Hydroplaning. Enough water to lose friction, but not enough to create more. I feel like if I had just a little more ache I could name it. If I had just a little less I wouldn’t have to.

I talk about how I got up this morning. When the alarm clock went off, even. On less than twelve hours of sleep. Amazing. I revel in my ability to take a shower and put on clothes. To leave the house. Keep appointments. Can it count as friction? Please. Something to give me a little traction so I feel less like I’m sliding. Careening. Out of control. Helpless.

My shoes skid across the sidewalk and I swear I’m floating. People are just blurs of hats and scarves. Sunglasses. Warm, fuzzy blobs of color and noise. I am completely disconnected. Nothing you’re saying sounds like words. I smile, but I don’t see you. Not really. Keep my hands in my pockets, unsure if I’d actually feel my touch on anything. Begging to feel like I’m residing in my own body. Like I have any sway over what happens in my head. Continue reading →