His words are very pertinent to any of us who have battled emotional distress. Donald first talks about some kind words from his therapist.
‘Pat also suggested that I reframe my battle against depression as a heroic struggle.
“When I work with people who have spent their lives battling mental disorders,” Pat said, “I do not see wimps. On the contrary, only strong and courageous individuals could bear and ultimately transform such intense pain.
Your brother may work on the 66th floor of an office building in Manhattan, but given your level of pain, just managing to stay functional, is a major achievement.
I’m sorry that no one is giving you stock options for your display of courage. But the absence of financial reward does not invalidate the important work you are doing.”
Upon hearing those words, I was reminded of what Christopher Reeve said about this type of heroism shortly after he became paralyzed:
“When the first Superman movie came out, I was frequently asked, ‘What is a hero?’
My answer was that a hero is someone who commits a courageous action without considering the consequences - a soldier who crawls out of a foxhole to drag an injured buddy to safety.
I also meant people who are slightly larger than life: Houdini and Lindbergh, John Wayne, JFK and Joe DiMaggio.
Now my answer is completely different. I think of a hero as an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”’
I couldn’t agree more! Don’t forget that last sentence when you are feeling down in spirits.