“Life Interrupted: It’s Not All About Me”

by :Chris M. Tatevosian

“Life Interrupted,” is a self-help book that centers on the author’s struggle against multiple sclerosis and destruction and the demise of a relationship. This is a story about his dealing with the battle with the effects of the said disease that as he says, destroy the most important, significant, loving, and incredibly caring relationship- his marriage with Rachel. The illness develops what he calls a “Poor Me Attitude,” which is a controlling attitude that started with his unconscious using of his weakness, loneliness, and feelings of inadequacy to get what he needs. This results to his uncontrolled anger and irate on trivial things. It is within addressing this attitude which his advice to people having similar experiences are patterned. He wants to convey the message that we need to recognize our attitudes, actions, stress, and depressions because they significantly affect our physical, mental, and verbal interactions with people. With this, we can be aware of the effects of the change of our lives and to the life of those whom we love.

           Chris’ life is an example of how multiple sclerosis affects the mental framework and consciousness of the patient. He exemplifies how weary it is to battle against your mind wherein in many instances you think you are justified with what you are doing but after slowing things down, you realize you are being unreasonable and are hurtful to the people you love. It is with this that he puts premium over mindfulness and reflection so as to drag the burst of anger and buffer anxiety as well. Additionally, in the battle against his illness, he realized that there are ways that can constantly reduce the effects of depression, anger, and frustrations. It is this which makes this masterpiece even more interestingly relevant. Chris provides us with ways in coping with such attitude and its manifestations. These are seemingly common or basic to each and every individual. However, the author redirects us to the basics of life, as neglecting them can be catastrophic to human relations. The objective is to be aware and conscious of these behavioral patterns so as to avert the same relationship destroying mistakes. For him, the key is to be aware and constantly accept such illness before one ventures into slowly eliminating symptoms and expressions. However, this work does not lay down what one ought to do or not do. But presents alternatives and approaches in dealing with similar relationship difficulties. The following is a dozen of advice to remind us that;

We are not alone. We can talk to somebody to overcome the situation.

We can consult counselors and other practitioners of the field to assess and assist our situation.

We need to open a clear, honest, and open communication between people involved. Reduce stress with communication.

We need to remember to recognize the good things our spouse has done for us. Saying “Thank You,” means a lot.

We treasure the “Little Moments,” of life. Let us show them what they really mean to us. Do not be too selfish.

We have to be aware of our unacceptable behaviors and work to eliminate or at least to change them.

Worrying about the future too much can be the cause of its loss.

Forgiveness and caring communication, rather than silence or hurtful criticism, is needed.

Divorce rip couples apart from one another. It steals away great memories and it renders what was once awesome is gone.

Moving on requires forgetting, forgiving, and loving others as you love yourself so that you are free to find happiness again. Life goes on and true happiness is up for grab.

When you have disagreement, it is important and essential that we have the grace to give in with a smile and think about what is important.

We need God in our hearts if we want to change for the better. That is the reality of the situation. We rededicate our lives to Him.

Which advice do you need? Take them for yourselves as that is the goal and objective of this masterpiece. And as you apply them, let us all await for a sequel of Chris’ another chapter of his life with his newly found love and happiness.