@ Laurie – I sleep naked every night too! Am I in the minority here, I thought it was normal???

@ Shamelle – Thanks for the comment and stopping by.

Definitely makes sense!

Thought provoking post.Thank you

@Tim: Oh yes, could deffinately apply to almost anyone. ROFL

My advice would be to do exactly what you’re doing. All the things I talk about are generalizations. They don’t apply to everybody and there are exceptions to most rules. You happen to be one! Congratulate yourself for doing what you can do and don’t get too wrapped up in what other people may think.

BTW, I’m sure you don’t look like a warthog, except for maybe the cloven hooves and frontal tusks, but that could apply to almost anybody.

First of all, thank you for addressing this to me, personally: that was very kind.

Second of all, thank you for what you said about so-called “self-help” books. It DID make me laugh.

Third, can only coaches get “big coachy sticks,” or is there a store where I can get one too?

Finally, about the Warthog: I AM a warthog. I always look like I am unhappy, and people are constantly approaching me to ask if I’m OK. I am on disability, suffering from a pain disorder called RSD (or CRPS). The symptons are: chronic, unfathomble pain and discomfort. Though I smile and laugh, people can still SEE the pain in my face – so what do I do? I always try to be upbeat, laugh, smile, and frequently make jokes – often at my own expense. (Like the woman who has gained 30 lbs, and everyone starts to ask “when are you due?” She can get nasty, or she can joke about the weight gain, so others don’t feel bad about their comments.)

Seriously, what does a person in my situation do? Am I happy? You betya. Do I have a sense of humor – yes (despite what you think!) Yet I am not a trained, Academy Award winning actress. I look like I am in pain and suffering because I AM in pain and suffering. What you said about the unconsious mind is SO true.

I know that people who know me enjoy my company, or I would not have the geat friends I have. I explain to my students each year that what they see is NOT who I am. And it works – they accept me, and we laugh a lot during the year.

Yet how DOES one get rid of the Warthog face when one is totally aware of its effects on people, yet little self-control can be exercised over it. I KNOW that laughter is the best medicine, and I employ that as often as I can. So, my genius friend, what would you advise for a person like me – who constantly looks unhappy, yet accepts her limitations and tries to be as upbeat as possible? Any advice from my coach?

Thanks,

Rita