After a day of mind-bending interactions
with Chelsey in the ER, Russel wrote this.
Talking to a manic person seems similar to talking to someone
with Alzheimers. Identity is transitory and fragmented. Is this a remnant that
can be restored, or a dramatically altered loved one? The real person may not
remember her words, may not BE the same later. Autonomy is tenuous. Comments
make sense only in an alternate reality. Understandings are meaningless outside
of the present. You have to maximize dignity & respect while simultaneously
discounting most of what they say. Quite an experience.
I suppose the same is true to a degree in normal
interactions. We bend ourselves to the other’s reality to fully engage and
understand. Autonomy is constrained in deep relationships. Although transitions
are more gradual, healthy people also change identity and understandings over
time. However, mania provides tap dancing lessons to the tune of Alvin and the
Chipmunks, and I’m used to waltzing or sitting on the couch watching others
dance.
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