My Musing Manifesto of Mental Freedom

I woke up last night with an idea for this post.

A manifesto for my life.

This is my manifesto.

Like a bird migrating to the south for the winter, my internal compass guides me toward a season of mental freedom for all.

I want no more anxiety, no more delusions, no more psychosis.

My goal is not just freedom of the mind but a relentless pursuit that fuels my determination and inspires my journey.

I want to be an intrepid sailor on choppy waters of the unknown, steering his vessel to a new land.

I want to be the mountain that moves those with the faith of a mustard seed, a beacon of hope and strength in the face of adversity.

I don't want to be frightened by the darkness, knowing that the stars of the dark skies illuminate my steps.

As I breathe, I want each breath to fill the air sacs of my lungs with the boldness of the truth.

I, Barnaby Alkire, want to embody my name and encourage those around me as life becomes tumultuous with courage and bravery as the sword and shield to slay those dragons.

"The Cave You Fear to Enter Holds the Treasure You Seek"

~ Joseph Campbell

My 'cave' is the hostility of mental illness that can come upon me.

It's the place of fear and uncertainty, where I often find myself retreating when the symptoms of my illness become overwhelming.

I want to be able to accept my illness for what it is, embracing it as a part of my journey and a source of strength.

As my days grow older, let this manifesto be a reminder of things of the past.

Of times that were clear and concise.

Each tap of the keyboard is like each step of a marathon runner.

I run not as a sprint but with endurance.

The voice of my illness subsides as Invega, a medication that helps manage my symptoms, invades my mind.

It brings a quiet that allows me to be a voice for the voiceless, a peace that I had longed for amid my mind's storm.

It brings a quiet that allows me to be a voice for the voiceless.

As the waves crash, the shoreline remains steadfast, weathered, yet resilient, just as our spirits can be shaped but not defined by the turmoil surrounding us.

We are resilient; we are strong.

I will shut my eyes and ears to the sirens of the internet and resist the temptations that roar like wildfire across my screen.

My convictions bleed deeply onto this page as my Savior carries my burdens and sins.

I offer my heart as a pure object, dedicating my life to loving my neighbor as myself and loving God with all my heart, soul, and strength.