A Letter From the Editor - Tony Henderson

This edition of JUST DREAM is extra special as it marks the two-year anniversary since beginning this journey. Thanks to YOU, and all of our loyal readers, JUST DREAM continues to grow, furthering our mission of providing a platform for writers to share insight into some of the most important issues in the world today.

This issue will focus on mental health and awareness, a topic that many people are reluctant to discuss, especially in the black community. I prefer to use the term “ mental wellness ” as opposed to “ mental health” . Becoming aware of your mental state is a precursor of being mentally well.

As I think about mental wellness it brings to my mind many questions and queries. I will focus on myself if I may. Without going into too much detail, I will say that I am fighting to stabilize my mental wellness, while simultaneously helping my wife of forty years conquer her issues. Two hearts can indeed become one as we battle with each other ’ s conditions. And with God’ s help and our prayers and positive attitudes, we are winning each battle thus far - one day at a time, and periodically minute by minute. It is not always easy to stay positive; when I cannot breathe easily, or eat, or even speak, it can be very discouraging. But I force my thoughts and emotions to stay positive. I was elated when I was able to swallow apple juice! I saw it as progress in the right direction. God is fighting for me and working with me, because He sees that I am fighting for myself.

I admit I am not mentally well, but that admission is an enormous first step in the process of getting to wellness. I affirm myself every day with these statements: I AM Amazing; I AM Miraculous; I AM Remarkable; I AM Abundant; I AM Limitless; I AM Powerful; I AM Blessed!

A Letter from the Editor (cont.)

Mental wellness is a state of mind, a conscious practice and process. It can also be a subconscious destroyer of your mind if you don ’t acknowledge your mental state. You cannot pretend it doesn ’t exist – you must focus on it and work to achieve mental wellness.

With that being said, I invite you to turn the pages and keep reading. Thank you to all of our contributors. As always, your articles and commentary are wonderful.

Fellow Dreamers, choose happy! Enjoy!