Agape (A gathering of women)

We all know it exists out there, but seldom talk about the “dark nights of our souls”. All of us are vulnerable human beings and whether we like it or not, are chemical beings as well. Our fragile inner selves suffer small slights and usually bounce back. But sometimes the ugly head of depression creeps into our lives. They say that depression is rampant at holiday times and more prevalent in women, so it seems appropriate to talk about this subject. I’m sending this a bit early so you will have time to read the articles I’ve scanned. As usual, most are from Real Simple with a couple from Oprah and Diane added. I hope they give you food for thought and may have some advice to help if you get a case of the holiday blues. Sometimes our expectations are so high that we are doomed to disappointment. I’m not sure that anyone had “Leave It to Beaver-Ozzie and Harriet” holidays (or lives for that matter!), so why do we keep comparing ourselves and our lives to television shows from fifty years ago?
Our discussion (and the articles) speak of depression-not just during the holidays. This is not PMS or “the change”, but a very real condition that can paralyze us. Read up and see what you think.
I look forward to seeing you on November 12th at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church at 10 AM. Please come if you have any experience with this or if you want to learn how to be a better friend to someone who suffers from this malady. Chances are that you know several women who experience depression-whether you know it or not!
God bless you all,
Pam+
Agape 11-12-2011 Depression
IF YOU CANNOT ACCESS THE BACKGROUND MATERIAL, PLEASE LET ME KNOW BY THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20. IF IT DOESN’T COME UP WHEN YOU CLICK ON IT, YOU MIGHT TRY TO COPY AND PASTE THE LINK TO YOUR BROWSER.