It is impossible to read this collection without a moist eye, an overwhelming anger at the cruelty of brain diseases, exasperation at society’s failure to help, and a deep admiration for the undaunted spirit of those who speak out and advocate for their fellow travelers on such a difficult path. ~ Pete Earley, author of CRAZY: A Father’s Search Through America’s Mental Health Madness, finalist for the 2007 Pulitzer Prize
It has now been almost two years since the publication of our collaboration Hope for Troubled Minds. Over 100 collaborators contributor their hearts and minds to the effort. A team of editors including Katie Dale, Adela Dickey, Leanne Sype, and Janet Coburn worked countless hours to bring it all together. Shepherding the project was a labor of love that marked a pivotal point in my journey. More a crossroads than a pinnacle. Maybe a plateau. I required rest and recovery.
The past 343 days (and counting), I have devoted myself more to an inward than outward journey. August 19 will mark my one year sober annivery. Abstaining from alcohol and other addictive substances has freed my mind to become less troubled. In many ways I am sober, sane, and serene as I work my 12 step program rooted in faith and grounded in fellowship. I have been diligently “pruning” away people, places, and things that have been contributing to my addiction. As country artist Kacey Musgraves put it. I am, “getting rid of the habits that I feel are real good at wasting my time.” This letting go is giving me more time to devote my attention to people, places, and things that contribute to abundant life. Like, for example, sharing Hope for Troubled Minds.
This post marks something of a “soft opening” of a new initiative by me, Tony E. Roberts (a.k.a. “Brother Anthony”) to cultivate the soil of hope for more people with troubled minds, particularly those living with brain illnesses and their loved ones. I will do this not so much by sharing my story, but by introducing you to the stories of creative collaborators in our book Hope for Troubled Minds. I believe like Pete Earley. Ron Powers, and countless others you will be moved not only to weep but to work for change.
~ Brother Anthony
Summit Hill Haven
