Share Your Erickson Story

• So one day Erickson asks me by Don Nathanson, 10/15/97
  
  

Numerous times I find myself remembering a particularly haunting refrain trumpeted by Erickson.

I recall reading a letter Erickson wrote to a patient in which he defined the attitude of "mature" love as, "in your happiness, I find my happiness." I crafted Erickson's phrase into an acronym to enhance its impact and make it more memorable for patients, defining love as T.O.P.I.A.H., "Take Obvious Pleasure In Another's Happiness." Besides, I like the interactional aspect of defining emotions--looking at the "between space."

Thanks, Don, for taking precious time to post your encounter with Erickson and its impact on you. I hope that your impetus stimulates others to share similarly.

• Mature Love by David C. Hubbard, Ph.D., 11/10/97
  • Bonner's and the Putneys' Love by Stephen Lankton, 11/12/97