Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Depression as a peculiarly Quaker spiritual discipline?

In The transformation of American Quakerism: Orthodox Friends, 1800-1907 by Thomas D. Hamm, I read that Friends thought of depression as a very necessary part of Quakerism and that these dark times were welcomed.

I decided that a lifetime of depression was enough, especially if an expression of a genetic tendency; I've joined those who believe in better living through chemicals. I miss the creative urge and general contentedness that I have felt in the past. I'm tired of complaining all of the time. (oops, that looks like a complaint in and of itself.) I want to feel energetic.

Also despite the Friendly emphasis on not fighting back, I am taking a 15-week class on "Self-defense for women." I don't believe that I should allow someone to harm me, if I can create enough time or opportunity to get away.

1 comment:

J.P. said...

Is this the GV class done by Officer Morningstar? If so, I thought it was excellent when I took it.