We had a glorious evening together that New Year’s Eve. I was the one who had invited him to my friends’ party. He hadn’t seemed to have changed much even though more than a decade had passed between us. I was the one who had changed - to a grown woman.
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For people who grew up during the 1960s where you now exist, nostalgia surges to the forefront at Christmastime. And songs play a major role in reviving these feelings.
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Ahhh, wonderful Jasper. I, too, knew a guy in Jasper that I liked. He was from the United States ... he was handsome ... and very kind ... he camped out near where my girlfriend and I had our tent ... along the Athabasca River ... there were lots of young hitchhikers camping there back then ...
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Thank you for being concerned about me, Amy.
But before I tell you why I'm feeling down I want to mention that it's quite the groovy outfit you're wearing in 1960-something. Seems like you're fitting into the decade very well.
Shhh. Yes, I heard you loud and clear. You crave a modern life. The 1960s aren't like the 21st century. I know you're feeling sad about being stuck there this long ... and I also realize that the 1960s isn't a perfect decade to live in. It can be a real bummer, right?
You must be hearing about the war in Viet Nam ...
... you must be hearing about poverty ...
... and lack of civil rights for diverse populations ...
... and the protestors who are young like you, trying to make a positive difference in the world.
Well, of course I'm still trying to fix the time machine to get you back to the 21st century.
But don't make the mistake of thinking that the 21st century is perfect.
You still want to know why I'm feeling sad?
I missed the deadline for entering my book into an important contest.
That's all. That's why I'm feeling sad at the moment.
Of course I realize it's not a big deal in the grand scheme of things.
But missing this chance has gotten to me. I feel foolish and sad, just like everyone does now and then.
True depression can be very serious and not easily resolved, though.
The term "depression" is derived from Latin and means, "to press down".
In the 14th century, "to depress" meant to "bring down in spirits".
In 1665 English author Richard Bakerot referred to depression as someone having "a great depression of spirit".
In the 1950s, psychologist Albert Ellis's thinking was that depression stemmed from irrational "should" and "musts" - leading to self-blame.
By the 1960s where you currently exist, Amy, researchers are studying grief and depression. They'll soon come up with criteria based on patterns of symptoms, leading to a future of successful mental health treatments for those in need.
Huh. Looks like you didn't hear a word I just said.
Anyway, the truth is that it's good to know you're enjoying some of the wonderful things living in 1960-something can bring, like love and the hope for peace.
And that's not a bummer at all.