Sunday Coffee and Chat -- 26th October 2025

Yes, it's very important to acknowledge differences of opinion @heartathome. That's the way we learn from others who may be able to shed a broader light on our own understanding or have valid counterpoints to discuss and consider further. I find that today we have lost the ability to have differences of opinion, and to then be able to argue our point of view without feeling inadequate or uncomfortable when we lose our previous sense of connection. We just keep quiet and don't learn from each other. I have certainly lost that ability off the written page and relationships are shallow as a result. I crave depth. I want to be able to disagree without seeming disagreeable. I don't know where to find the middle ground. None of us want to lose relationships because we disagree about something, but that shouldn't be the price of differences of opinion.

I'm very grateful I had a psychiatrist who believed in his own gut feelings about the origin of 'mental illnesses' and took the absolutely painstaking time to figure it all out for himself too, @Appleblossom. Otherwise, they all just keep unthinkingly repeating the misconceptions they have all been indoctrinated with. And so very many misconceptions there are! All patients are different and, to the dedicated, it must be a daunting task—but so rewarding.

I hope you're doing OK and getting in lots of music. How I envy your musical ability! Such a gift and source for self-expression. It must feel great to be part of opera choruses. I'm still waiting to get to see my first opera and must satisfy my needs with my radio, but there's no substitute for live music. I'll get there!

Yes, we've trodden a few paths others have avoided but we are wiser for it, I think.

Life goes on here. No change to report unfortunately. I'm taking time out from my sport at the moment owing to tennis elbow, so I'm doing a bit of reading and study.

Stay well, be happy.

@Appleblossom No. I hadn't heard of Peter Walker. Thank you so much for sending me the link! I read the article and found some gems in there. The 'affirmations' reminded me a bit of Louise L Hay. I like where he says we need to confront the inner critic with healthier (and typically more accurate) thought-substitution responses. I'm learning that through this forum!

I sent the link to my son, and he's interested in reading it, which is a surprise. His father rejected him when he was eight and although he says he doesn't care, I know he'd have to at least be hurt by the rejection! I know there's more as I saw how it changed him! His number one thing these days is his mental health (and dog) which I'm happy about! We get on really well and he's even thanked me for sticking around! How sweet! How is your day going?

@Historylover I'd rather talk about what we have in common and our strengths, goals and weaknesses and not what we disagree on regarding mental health. I will listen and not usually comment if I disagree on this forum. I'm just looking for peace these days. I certainly don't have the knowledge about the conversation you're talking about. I would rather walk away from an 'argument' any day, partly because of past experiences. I'm not articulate nor a fast typist. I am ignorant on a lot of things as I don't watch TV and don't want to know what's going on around the world. I find it too overwhelming, stirs up PTSD and brings me down. That's just me! I hope you'll still talk to me! ☺️

@Former-Member don't be ashamed at your "lack" of different animals you have eaten. Most people don't try anything other than the usual and I know I'm not in any hurry to try the more exotic meats. I'm quite happy to know I will never eat monkey, snake or cat for example!

@Historylover I'm sorry if my last post sounded angry or indifferent. 🥺

I've only just figured out that I felt like you were trying to change my mind which triggered past experiences and I responded out of that. I'm also so overwhelmed at the moment that I couldn't have an in-depth discussion, even if I wanted to. Don't let our conversation stop you from connecting with others! There're many people out there! Sending hugs and warm vibes 💛

@Historylover Really good to see you. Melbourne opera are often not too expensive. Sometimes the dress rehearsal is cheap and fun. I have not been there for years and am busy in another field. Radio is good too, but I have opted for live when I can. Hope your sports injury heals. Weary sigh… once we get to a certain age… there is always something going on.. body wise.

take care

💙🍎

@heartathome Glad you found the link useful. I found his work very relevant.

take care of yourself

its hard being a carer.

💙🍎

Of course I will, my friend @heartathome. I'm going through a very tough time at the moment, trying to find the magic ingredients to successful relationships and a good life. I'm not having any luck!

I have to type with two fingers myself these days, owing to my hand taking the shape it took on the mouse during my many years on my computer. I have a permanent left and right click configuration of my fingers now, and the others just curl under. It's awful. I bought a vertical mouse which doesn't help either. I can't afford physio so just put up with it.

By the way, your post has lightened my mood. I hope I can do the same for you. What's on for you today? I'm meeting with a support worker whose helping me work through my current difficulties. I hope you have a pleasant day @heartathome.☺️

No, your post came from a good heart, @heartathome. We're good. I'll try to be more thoughtful in future. We're all struggling here. ☺️