Welcome to Dymphna's Diary

Although I am not Catholic, I find it interesting that "Dymphna" is the patron saint of those who suffer from clinical depression and other mental illnesses. Considering the purpose of this site is to offer inspiration and spiritual guidance to my readers, I felt it was only right I chose her namesake for the title.

In 2010, this site was set up to pass along personal information about how depression has affected my life and the lives of my family. Since then, it has EVOLVED. In 2011, I attempted to present posts that were INSPIRATIONAL to you, my readers. In 2012, I went even deeper with personal stories from people across the United States via touching videos, songs, and interviews. My hope was to show each of you that even when you feel that you are in a situation that no one else could understand, you are not alone. Through it all, my comments have remained to be my personal opinions and spiritual reflections. I will continue to occasionally post information that I feel is beneficial in removing the stigma of mental illness, but regardless I feel blessed to have been given this platform to spread God's love and compassion for ALL people. I wouldn't be where I am today without the strength I receive daily from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My hope is that this blog will help you find some comfort in your life. It most certainly is helping me find comfort in mine.

I want to make it perfectly clear, though, that when I make generalizations regarding mental illness, I am NOT giving advice to anyone. I'm just passing along information that I have found helpful in my life. I'm writing about MY PERSONAL experiences and thoughts. Mental illness affects everyone differently and your situation may not be reflective of mine.


Wednesday, August 31, 2011

The Goat

I took my granddaughter to Henry's Ark today. Henry's Ark is a huge animal rescue facility that the owners operate as a petting zoo. It is wonderful!

Anyway, while we were there today, we happened on a pregnant goat. We fed her quite a bit. However, whenever we tried to feed the other animals - bunny rabbits, geese, ducks, sheep, turkeys, emus, etc - this little goat kept biting me to bring my attention back to her. I fussed at her.



My granddaughter wanted to know why this goat was being so mean. I told her that she was pregnant and that she was really hungry because of it. Well, she turned around and looked in my eyes and said, "You better tell her you're sorry!" Tell HER I'm sorry - she's been biting me for the last half hour!

My granddaughter explained to me that I shouldn't have fussed at the goat if she was only being mean because she was hungry. Hmmm... Wise beyond her years, I think.

So often we fuss at people without knowing their story. Maybe if we took a little time to find out what makes people "cranky", we would be more accepting of them.

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. ~ Matthew 7:12
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