When depression attempts to suffocate, it can sometimes help to drift into memories of happier times. Use them as steadying posts, reach one and hold tight for a bit. This is where I am. Again. 

I had to swap over my mobile phone contract. Even worse, it was mine plus three. I won’t bore you with the detail but suffice to say it took hours, and days!   

During this wearying process, I had to answer my security questions a few times, to prove I am me. This brought me round to “What’s the name of your first pet?” Brilliant. That would be Ralph. Ralph was a round, robust hamster. Named after a robust great uncle who was just perfect uncle material. We only saw him a few times as he lived far away. At a family wedding, he had a reason to climb a wall and ripped the bum out of his trousers. Not just any trousers either, his brand-new suit trousers! Yes, we could see skin and pants (yes I’m snorting too). He laughed and got a telling off from his good lady. Needless to say, we loved him for this alone.

This week gave me the opportunity to enjoy him all over again, and it reminded me that those who have walked into our lives never really walk out again. They’re here. They’re where we look. Ralph is still here for me.

What a joyous comfort. 

Love from

The room above the garage

A Moodscope member.