That is what I really got out of reading this book about our excessive individualism. I had never really thought about how our culture puts so much on us. I certainly love having choices and autonomy but we may have gone overboard.
We’re involved with a religious community but l drift away because it was politically hypocritical. Also 3 of my 4 children are less officiated. Connection with my grown children is more important. This l learned from my mother, whom l was otherwise estranged from.
At the end of her life, l contactact my estranged sister and told her we needed to work together on this!
We did and it alleviated suffering for my mother and kinship with my sister.
My eldest daughter is very religious, but she has found a way of making the entire family essential!
Because of my mood disorder, even small decisions (whether I should get ready for bed) can feel overwhelming.
Does feeling connected to others make it all feel more bearable?
Definitely. Instead of isolating as usual, I’ve been trying hard to put myself out there and meet new people.
That is what I really got out of reading this book about our excessive individualism. I had never really thought about how our culture puts so much on us. I certainly love having choices and autonomy but we may have gone overboard.
We’re involved with a religious community but l drift away because it was politically hypocritical. Also 3 of my 4 children are less officiated. Connection with my grown children is more important. This l learned from my mother, whom l was otherwise estranged from.
At the end of her life, l contactact my estranged sister and told her we needed to work together on this!
We did and it alleviated suffering for my mother and kinship with my sister.
My eldest daughter is very religious, but she has found a way of making the entire family essential!
So glad to hear a story about two estranged sisters making peace. My mother and her sister never did, and I found it so sad at the end of their lives.
What’s the name of the book?
Our Worst Strength, American Individualism and Its Discontents, by James Richardson. I first wrote about it in June, 2024.
https://sharoncortelyou.substack.com/p/individualism