Memories bring ‘Diamonds and Rust’

Mental Matters
Jennifer Goble

On CBS Sunday Morning, Joan Baez, the world’s most famous female folk singer and a global activist, was interviewed after being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

One of her songs, inspired by memories of her brief love relationship with Bob Dylan, is called “Diamonds and Rust.’

The title and lyrics struck me as a visual for the topic of memories, including PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder).

Simply stated, memories are good, bad, and neutral. Good memories have loving or exciting emotions. Neutral memories, because they carry few feelings, are difficult to remember. Bad memories, (war and sexual abuse – to name two) the roots for PTSD, can shatter the strongest man or woman.

Matt Damon in “The Legend of Bagger Vance,” when explaining how the sad, quiet, and stupid brain cells die when drinking alcohol, said, “…And finally, come the memory cells. These are tough #$%@*!^&*’s to kill!”

Our five senses recall our experiences; we can see, smell, taste, touch or hear something that brings vivid emotion and immediate reaction. All heightened emotions are stored in our bodies; brain, lungs, stomach, and muscles, reminding us of the inseparable connection between physical and mental health.

Yes, memories range from diamonds to rust. We can pull the diamonds nearer to us and push the rust away, but memories made with strong emotions come up for us with power.

Enjoying the diamonds and diminishing the rust are worthy goals.

Writing songs and singing helps Joan Baez, writing and projects helps me, working helps my husband. Pets, art, counseling, friends and family, community, faith, and many too numerous to mention, help others.

Everyone has rust in varying degrees. What helps YOU control and manage your rust?

Put the evening of April 9, at 6:30 p.m. on your calendar. Diana Alishouse, author, and creator of “The Ragged Edge” book and quilt exhibit will be at the Overland Trail Museum.

Diana will use her dynamic art quilts for visuals as she speaks on the subject of depression, bipolar disorder, (manic-depressive illness) PTSD, treatment, and recovery.

Listen to her experience and depth of knowledge as you view her exemplary art quilts. It is an invaluable opportunity for anyone interested in ‘Diamonds and Rust.’

There is no cost, but the museum is asking for reservations. Call (970) 522-3895.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

Jennifer Goble, Ph.D., LPC, is the author of “My Clients…My Teachers,” and the blogger and writer of Rural Women Stories: www.ruralwomenstories.com.

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