I find myself feeling comforted and validated (is this a good thing?) about my OCD tendencies when I watch Adrian Monk. My compulsions seem to be minimized by Monk's constant need to straighten things that are crooked, pick lint off strangers' sweaters and touch every fence post when walking. In comparison, when I wipe the kitchen counter underneath one of my guests who is still eating or clear a glass of water that is still being consumed, it now feels practically normal. I find myself having self-empathy - cutting myself a little more slack than usual. I am feeling more relaxed and accepting of who I am, rather than constantly deriding myself for my Monk-like ways.
At the same time, Craig, who has always (did I put that in bold?) been a wee bit annoyed with my OCD tendencies, finds Adrian Monk to be absolutely endearing and humorous when he is in full-blown OCD form. The amazing thing is that I never did have to point out to Craig that this might be a double standard. Craig figured it out all on his own. (Minor miracle!) Now, when I pull one of my OCD stunts, he chuckles graciously and says something like, "That's something Monk would do." (Wow! How much do I owe the producers for this?)
Perhaps there are some who wouldn't find such a comment complimentary. However, at this stage of my middle-aged life, having battled certain tendencies for a very long time to little avail, it is helpful to know that Craig and I both forgive me for being me. Tolerance is bliss!!
Follow the link for a brief summary of the t.v. series, along with station and schedule.
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