sorry for the delay

Been a little occupied with things.

I'm currently reading Remembering Garrett, a book by Oregons Senator Gordon Smith. His son, Garrett, suffered from depression and the day before his 22nd birthday comitted suicide. While one would think this would be a depressing book, it isn't.

Senator Smith goes into detail about Garrett and how he and his wife (Sharon Smith) were unable to recognize that their sons depression was as bad as it was. Also he brought up how most people he dealt with on a daily basis (be it republican, democrat, liberal, conservative) put aside their differences (realizing how petty they were) and grieved with him. It gave me a new-found respect and trust of Senator Smith (and Wyden too), and that he was doing what he felt was best for Oregon and not necessarily best for "republicans" ,etc.

The Smith family obviously has had to deal with a pain that I hope I never have to deal with in my life. Although I, like most peple, do know what it's like to be depressed, but not to the degree that Garrett was. I can't imagine, or even fathom how to handle a situation like this. It's clear to me that Senator Smith is a great man and someone who has earned our respect.