Jim Stitzel
Jack-of-All-Trades, Master of WordsExcerpts from Life
Four Days in a Psych Ward
Just a few days ago, I was released from the hospital after a four-day treatment program for severe depression and suicidal ideation. This was my first inpatient hospital stay of any kind, and while I wouldn't exactly describe it as being fun, it was extremely helpful...
Happiness, That Strangest of Strangers
I felt happy today. So of course it took me a while to recognize it for what it was. I noticed the extra energy first, the increased sense of motivation, the additional drive. My pain levels were the lowest they've been in months. The first half of my morning just...
I Feel Like a Sociopath (The Trouble Is All These Damned Feelings)
There was a time in my life once where I was exceptionally introspective and self-aware. I analyzed my every thought and intention through a microscope and made adjustments as needed to correct faulty thinking. I had a firm faith then, a guide that gave me direction...
Fiction
Coffee Isn’t Just for Humans Anymore
She forgot to buy the coffee. She could have kicked herself for forgetting, but it wasn't terribly surprising that she did. The morning had progressed in anything but a smooth manner from the time her alarm went off to her approach to the office park now. The dog had...
Reanimation
I need to tell somebody what I've done, but I don't know who to turn to. I doubt anyone would believe me. And if they did, I'm afraid the news would get out, and I would suddenly become a specimen to be analyzed and dissected -- figuratively by the public, literally...
The Replicas
There were too many people in the room. Jared knew it before he even set foot in the room, but he was compelled to enter anyway. And he regretted it the moment he did. He avoided looking at anyone. Instead, he shuffled to one side of the room and took up a spot along...