I have always thought that the frequent discomfort and anxiety I feel while watching something or reading a book are related to suspense. Until now, I haven't honestly examined why I want to crawl out of my skin in certain situations. Then, the other night, I was reading Water Finds a Way by Meghan Perry and realized I was getting antsy and uncomfortable. I wanted to skip ahead to find safety or resolution for the protagonists - the way I typically do. Instead, I put the book (phone) aside and sat with the feelings to think about what was happening in the story that was triggering me. That is when I realized I wasn't bothered by the suspense of wondering what would happen. I was viscerally reacting to an unlikable character who had just been introduced. No, he wasn't necessarily portrayed as obnoxious or sinister; I just knew the guy would cause trouble as the story progressed. Broadening this investigation to my over-arching feelings of unease, irritation, malaise, and apprehension since last summer, I now recognize that it isn't caused by suspense either - because I already subconsciously know the results. Instead, like in the book, I have been experiencing all these deep-seated emotions in response to an untrustworthy, purely evil character and his entire corrupt cast (of puppet masters). I often perceive what happens in a story (or real life) well before any tangible clues or foreshadowing are presented. I can also immediately assess whether I should trust someone and get to know them better within seconds of meeting them (again, whether in a story or real life). First impressions are all I need. Some would call this skill - intuition (or maybe too quick to judge). But whatever you label it - it is definitely connected to my neuro-spiciness. However, as a people-pleasing problem solver, I sometimes ignore my spidey senses, open myself up, and offer requested support and help - to my detriment and peace of mind. Yet, even given the occasional heartbreak and angst, my instinct toward kindness, fairness, and empathy will constantly guide me. To be clear, I will confront misinformation and rudeness, but always with an underlying gentleness and care that allows for that human connection we all seek. (Unless I need to break contact entirely for my and others' emotional or physical safety.) I want "my" DRC kids to witness respect in action and understand that building a thoughtful, diverse, inclusive, and supportive community together is the basis for positive societal change. DRC NewsThe Canton Crew had the week off for midwinter break. The Pop-ups Peeps had fun at the Massena & Norwood libraries on Thursday & Friday. They will return to their Wednesday and Thursday schedule this coming week. They will be at Nicandri on Wednesday and the Massena Library on Thursday. All homeschool families are welcome to participate. Celebrating Black HistoryTo celebrate Black History Month, DRC will be honoring the voices of just a few of the many inspiring black women throughout our history on our social media. Below are the posts from this past week. Fundraising The DRC raffle is live! Win the $100 worth of pictured Lotto Tickets. (Thanks to Robert at the Seven-Eleven, 71 E. Main St. in Canton for choosing the tickets for us!) Must be 18+ to participate. Drawing is March 17th. Purchase raffle tickets from DRC families or online by clicking below. As the NoCo clears up the latest snow, your friends at DRC are sending out summer vibes as we begin planning our second annual Craft Fair/Family Fun event Saturday, Aug. 9th at the Norwood Village Park. Vendors can find the link to the registration form. Save the date! We hope to see you there! Please share this info with any vendors in your network. Thank you!
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