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Don Akchin's avatar

You are a courageous person for seeking treatment and even more courageous for exposing your wounded self to others. As the son of a bipolar man who resisted treatment most of his life, and who passed a weakened but potent strain of his illness to me and my siblings, I feel your pain and wish you well on your journey.

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Joel Tefft's avatar

Don, thank you for your kind words. Our stories sound very similar. your clarity of insight leads me to believe you have been on a road very much like mine. That is very inspiring and encouraging!

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Lyle McKeany's avatar

Thanks for writing this, Joel, and giving a voice to not only yourself, but to those who are fighting a silent and sometimes unknowable battle with themselves. I'm glad to hear you're working with someone so you don't have to navigate these waters alone.

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Joel Tefft's avatar

Thanks Lyle, I really appreciate the encouragement!

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moviewise 🎟's avatar

“I know you’re afraid. I know you’re hurting. It won’t always be this way and you’re safe with me.” This is essentially what I wrote in a post titled, "How To Comfort Someone Who Is Sad." https://moviewise.substack.com/p/how-to-comfort-someone-who-is-sad

"I feel and understand your sadness. I’m here to support you and hold you up." I believe that part of helping someone heal is to be there to listen to them, and when you share your authentic vulnerability as you have in your writing, you allow others the opportunity to provide you with some comfort and the space to say: we want you to be well; we wish you to be happy.

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Joel Tefft's avatar

thank you so much!

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Swarnali Mukherjee's avatar

Dear Joel,

I'm feel honoured to be able to see you in your vulnerable yet glorious self. Know that you are not alone. Know that we all are in this together, this weird thing called life. Know that we all are hurting in one way or another. I hope you find the reliable creative energy that you are looking for.

I am sending strength and healing prayers for you and your lovely wife from halfway across the planet.

Stay safe.

Regards,

Swarna

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Joel Tefft's avatar

Swarna, thank you for the beautiful words. I am filled gratitude and awe at your kindness. thank you!!

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Tony's avatar

Joel, this article is very thought provoking and brings into light the darkness that people feel on their road from “broken places.” Thank you for being courageous and sharing with us.

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Nov 5, 2021
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Joel Tefft's avatar

You’re very welcome, Marilyn. And thank you!

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