A Disturbance in the Force

There was a disturbance in the force yesterday. As most of you know, Carrie Fisher died in the morning. For the most part there was postings of sadness on Facebook. After all she portrayed a  beloved character in one of the most iconic movies of our time. But mixed in with the tidings of sorrow, was a  few crotchety posts  that said things like, "What's the big deal? She was just an actress." Well, let me tell you. She was a big deal in my book. Not because she played a strong female character who got to kiss my lifetime crush, Harrison Ford. It's because she gave a voice to those who have mental illness and battle addiction.  C. S. Lewis once said," Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: What! You too? I thought that no one but myself... " Carrie got that. I listened to an interview with her late yesterday,  She was so open and honest about her struggles, When she was asked why she spoke about her mental illness, she said, " Because sharing creates community." Wow! What a wonderful concept is that idea of community. We all strive for that sensation of belonging.  When you have a condition or struggle you believe no one understands, you feel marginalized, out of the loop, adrift. Carrie spoke up and said, " Me too."  When she bravely stepped up, she helped thousands of others come out of the shadows to belong to her community.  What a wonderful gift.  A sense of I'm not the only one is a powerful thing. It is my hope that other will continue to speak out. There should be no more shame  in saying " I have a mental illness" then there is " I have diabetes" And that my friends is why Carrie Fisher was a big deal.   

So in honor of Carrie Fisher's legacy:My name is Susan and I have been treated for Depression. 

Rest in Peace General,

Susan