“Just don’t take me up to Los Angeles again. I can’t stand that traffic,” said my father when we were discussing places to dine. He complains about any drive to Los Angeles before we start the trip; he criticizes the roads, drivers and hectic pace of any drive to Los Angeles while we’re on a trip; and he regrets almost everything about any drive to Los Angeles after the trip is over.
For whatever reason, he has a great fear of driving in heavy traffic.
So, today we headed south to Laguna Beach, and my father seemed much calmer.
My father at least recognizes a fear he has, although he may not be dealing with it in the most beneficial way. Myself, I’ve had fears that I have refused to recognize and have paid a heavy price for it. We all have fears. The well-balanced person will recognize those fears and deal with them in the best way possible. The unbalanced person will attempt to ignore those fears and thus make decisions illogically just to avoid fearful situations.
I believe that fear fuels depression and depression enhances fears. Together they can hinder growth and happiness in anyone. Of course, a solution is to recognize my own fears and deal with them honestly. What can be done to lessen or eliminate the fear? So far, I’ve always found a way out of the fear/depression entanglement, sometimes by myself, but more often with the help of others. And I know I must reach out for help when I need it. I no longer foolishly think I can always do it by myself.
We’re all in this together.
Mildred on the beach with volleyball players.
Mildred and Bill outside the original Wylan painting on the parking lot wall.
Time for a sweet break in Laguna Beach.
Enjoying yet another sweet break, this time at Johnny Rocket's.
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