Hello Wayfarers!
I am so, so sorry I’ve been such a ghost lately. Things have really changed in my life these last couple of weeks, and I’ve been dealing with A LOT!
I recently found out that my uncle committed suicide, so that was a major shock (as most people say – he was such a great guy and I never expected this to happen). Things have really seemed completely off-kilter since that day – I miss him, a lot. I’ve had a range of emotions and thoughts to process and try to understand, as well as taking time to talk to people close to me about how I feel about it.
In college, I was in a group that tackled the stigma relating to mental health, so I have loads of opinions on various aspects of mental health. I understand how hard it is to deal with it and how insurmountable it can feel. I also urge everyone to seek help if needed. Sometimes that’s just a hug or a coffee; other times it can be meeting a psychiatrist or someone more qualified. I think deep down, we all know what we really need and the difficulty is usually not knowing how to ask for the help we need and deserve to receive. Mental health is a very serious issue. I can nearly guarantee someone in your life is dealing with it while you’re unaware. I hope we move toward a more inclusive society in which people feel better able to speak up about their emotions and worries.
Suicide sucks for those left behind, but mental health problems aren’t easy to deal with for anyone – especially when those struggling with those problems feel entirely alone and unheard. And for those of you who feel that you should have seen it or said something…it’s not your fault! It is no one’s fault. They made the decision, and we need to accept that and learn to move on without them. Now, I’m not condoning suicide. I think there are better options, but sometimes a difficult decision is made and there is no coming back from it.
Two weeks before that, a friend I’d made in the bookish world had passed, as well. She was beloved by so many people and will be sorely missed. Such a kind heart and bright personality gone too soon.
Life is so short and beautifully heart-rending. It’s amazing how someone can come to mean so much in such a limited time.
So, obviously, reading has been extremely difficult. I do have a few books to write up reviews for, though, so I hope to be back on schedule next week! I’ve read Fat Girl on a Plane (LOVE, LOVE, LOVE) and am finishing LIFEL1K3 (reeeeally good!) at the moment! I’ve also picked up a few new beauties at the local charity shop, including a Laini Taylor series and two series by Maggie Stiefvater (charity shops rock!). Once I’m rolling again, I’ll be on it!
Some other things that have happened are my nephew turned 2 ♥♥, I started a bespoke pet services business that has really taken off, and I’m playing Tag Rugby with a really great team! The physical exercise has really helped me process the emotional side of my life. It lets me work out the frustration and other emotions on the pitch rather than letting it build up inside me and manifest in other ways.
Life is also strange!
I’m also working a lot. I recently got a new part-time job, so, on top of starting a new business, I’m working 3 other jobs! I’ll be taking some time to myself soon, though! Don’t worry, Wayfarers, there’s a lot more to come from me! So, I’d love to hear some happy news and any meme recommendations you’d love to see here. Lots of love!
x The Wayfaring Bibliomaniac x
The Wayfaring Bibliomaniac 