I’d like to start by thanking Mari and Doug for making a fun night of my second chance to see Spirited Away. Thanks! Much laughing and joking and banana taffy was enjoyed. Mari loves banana taffy, you know.

That’s not what this entry is about, however.

As part of the “good hard look into the depths of my soul” I’ve been engaged in for the past couple of years, I’ve noticed a trend. I’m not sure if it’s something everyone experiences, or if I’m just a weirdo. Here it is: Highs are almost always followed by lows.

Not terribly profound, you say? Maybe it isn’t, but being aware of this fact is helping me learn to cope with my sudden freak depressions. The other helping factor, of course, is my determination not to wallow. I hate being a pathetic wallowing lump. (I was told recently how awfully unattractive that is. The fastest way to get my attention is to appeal to my overdeveloped vain streak…)

My current situation is a bit like this: I had a wonderful time Monday night and Wednesday night, first with Wendi and the kids and Amy and her son at the movie, then with Mari and Doug at the movie. Now that the anticipation of moviegoing with friends is gone, the emotional pendulum has swung over and I’m feeling listless, moody and a bit depressed. Now, however, I can recognize why this is happening and try not let it get ahead of me. Hooray!

I may not be perfect, but I’m working on dealing with the worst of my weaknesses. Isn’t that what it’s all about? “To strive, to seek… and not to yield.”