The link between intelligence, creativity and mental illness. Good stuff.

[WiffenPoof]

5. I Have Some Personal Experience...

...with some of this.

My mother, an artist and full-blown bi-polar has rubbed off on me genetically.

After years and years of anxiety disorders and two major bouts of depression, I was finally diagnosed with Hypo-Mania. Sounds awful, doesn't it? It is actually a minor form of bi-polar disorder. I hated that "label" thinking I was "damaged" goods...a broken machine.

Years later, with a new wife and some meds, I have come to terms with my so-called malady. During this time, one of my doctors suggested a book to me called "Key To Genius". It is basically a list of people in history that have suffered from some form of manic-depression (bi-polar) and their contributions to humanity...whether it be in the sciences or art, politics, etc.

This single book went further in convincing me that at least at some level, my disorder was a blessing...a unique gift. Of course, in keeping with the balance of nature, it did not come without considerable suffering.

I often think of the song "Vincent" when the issue of bi-polar comes up.

No, I'm no genius. But I have a better perspective on my existence and why I have not always fit in to society's norms.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Paige