Bipolar Site Awards-Living as a Manic Depressive

Living as a
Manic Depressive:
a bipolar website

A Thank You Note
...and a Commitment

10 September 1999
When I checked my e-mail this morning , I found out that I had gotten my first site award from the Internet Brothers - and it was a gold award. Not silver or bronze. Gold.

After I stopped dancing around my apartment, I realized that if I am to keep the award, I will have to accept the responsibility that goes with it.

When I put up the web site, I wasn't thinking of winning awards. I put it up because I was so lonely here in my house in my town with no one who understood me.

And those of you who e-mailed me did understand. I may have touched you, but you helped me too. The world is a less frightening place for me because you are there.

So for those of you who sent me a note, and for those who read my site and were heartened, I offer this commitment. This web site will remain open and receive some priority in my life, for as long as I am able to. And I do return e-mail.

I will try living up to the standard below, which was part of my review.

A W A R D S

"The Internet Brothers award is all about helping others. In my view, the ultimate help is one of self-sacrifice, the willingness to share one's innermost emotions and fears. It has been proven to me, time and time again, the most powerful way to help is to get out of self, and help another. You also have learned that valuable lesson, and your humble graciousness is exemplary."

It is not always easy to convey feelings and experiences in words, especially in a public forum like the Internet. You have tossed away the barriers of uneasiness, opened your true soul to those who may find you, and delivered many important messages to those who suffer, but may not know it.

I hope that in some small way, recognition of your site with this insignificant web award can garner some notoriety for the work you have done. It is must-reading for anyone afflicted with your condition; for anyone struggling to learn more about themselves. I say bravo!"

"You recently applied for our award. We have examined you website and would like to say that it passed! Congratulations!
You were right - your site does measure up Jinnah. Your site also exceeded in the area of content. It is very brave and honorable of you to to publish information such as the state of Manic Depression. It helps to talk about it. Be well my friend :o)
Keep up the great work!"