January 2005

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It is my great delight today to tell you that one of my absolute favorite writers, Patrick, is back to daily journal writing. I suspect most of you knew that already. But good news bears repeating and spreading.

I have said more than once that I do my best writing, in terms of expressing just what I mean, when I let my heart take over. One piece of writing that my heart took control of was an e-mail letter I sent to Patrick one late night in February of 2003. He had written something in a journal entry that made me dismiss the fact that he really didn't know me well at all.

In that letter, I gave Patrick some of my history. I wrote that I had my own experiences with depression, that at that moment I was doing all right, and that I would be happy to try to help him cope.

It was my honor that he accepted the offer.

And thus were my first steps on the journey.

All those times I've written about soul-searching things, and used the phrase, "the journey continues," I have been speaking of conversations-by-pixel that Patrick and I have had in the past nearly two years.

The insights, private thoughts, and just plain moments of silliness we have shared have led to a deep and abiding friendship. It is one that includes a lot of mutual support.

In the inaugural entry yesterday Patrick honored me, in part by saying I was there for him. What I will say is that he is here for me.

Never mind we've never been in the same room. As I said yesterday, "My companion on the journey has been a source of love and strength and support for me in ways I never imagined. I have tried my best to respond in kind."

Of himself in that same inaugural entry, Patrick said, "I'm capable of doing great things, even if I don't currently think I can." And I'm telling him, and you, that I know for absolute certain he not only is capable of doing more great things, he has already accomplished one tremendously great thing.

He did not give up. He went through pure utter hell, and he did not give up.

And that is one of the best pieces of happy news I've ever had the privilege of sharing with you.

I am delighted to be participating again in Holidailies. In addition to those participating in the portal, there are writers who are doing "Holidailies at Home." A list of those participants, as well as other information about Holidailies, is available through the link.