JimK's Journal

Friday, June 20, 2008 – 3:35 P.M.

Although there were a couple of minor annoyances, today has been a good one for me. The first thing I did (after getting up, eating, etc.) was get a haircut. I could feel my agoraphobia trying to keep me at home, but I did not give in to it. Access-A-Ride (AAR) took me to Great Clips, which was less than a mile away. The manager was extremely nice. I became somewhat nervous (going out AND to a different place than normal), so when my hands began shaking, she helped me get the money out of my billfold.

I explained that I had to wait for AAR to pick me up, which could have been a long wait knowing how that company works, but the manager said not to worry, and I could stay there as long as I needed. She also gave me a ticket for a $3 discount the next time I get a haircut there.

After waiting more than 45 minutes, two of the other “cutters” called AAR for me. They were told that a driver had been waiting 15 minutes for me – in front of a fish market, of all things!

Another AAR bus started to pass the store, but the people who had been helping me made it stop. That driver blamed the problem on a new software program their company was using. We both agreed that they needed to go back to the old one.

The driver then drove me to Wal-Mart, so that I could get an adjustment made on the watchband of a new wristwatch I bought online. It had been too big for me. I had no problem getting that done. The store had a Grand Opening Sale! They had good buys on HDTV’s, computers, and other electronics equipment that I would like to have gotten. It was hard, but I managed to restrain myself and leave the store without spending even a penny!

I waited another half hour in the blistering sun for my ride home. I figured that since my head was already burnt from earlier in the week, this could not do much more damage.

My main accomplishment today was just getting out of my apartment and not letting fear keep me from going anywhere. I am going to try going somewhere other than for appointments at least once a week.

Quotes for Success:

“Whatever task you undertake, do it with all your heart and soul. Always be courteous, never be discouraged. Beware of him who promises something for nothing. Do not blame anybody for your mistakes and failures. Do not look for approval except the consciousness of doing your best.”

Bernard Mannes Baruch