We are both in our thirties. My brother gained an incredible understanding of politics at a young age. He is VERY ANTI WOKE, to this day.
He’s always had a full time job, often 40-60 hrs weekly. Single guy, no children. Very upset about the stolen 2020 election, he was convinced we were going to civil war, like HOT war. Stopped working completely about 7 months ago.
He hates the idea of any type of work. Huge ego problem. No longer takes accountability. He stopped all drinking about 3 months ago. I was hoping we might see improvement. He has now achieved, what I believe to be his “final hollow form”. He sucks all joy from the room. He finds pleasure in absolutely nothing. He plays video games but he doesn’t even seem to enjoy those much anymore.
This is a guy who deeply understands the conversations between Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris. He had an INCREDIBLE wealth of self help knowledge. He has rehabilitated two very close friends with severe drug issues, years apart. Both success stories, not outstanding guys, but both turned their lives around.
He is also a huge fan of Jocko (if you’re not familiar, check him out. Legend has it he didn’t want to fill out any paperwork when his service with the SEAL team was up, he just left, end of story).
Today he helped me with a job. Standing near him was unfamiliar. I felt like I was standing next to a stranger. My brother and I were mostly inseparable until our 20’s. I know my brother better than anyone and it wasn’t him. It looked like him but his presence was spooky. I was actually looking forward to time with him today.
My mother, who had to drive him over (since he decided he no longer needs a vehicle) said she also was super disturbed by his presence today. She sobbed nearly half the car ride.
I’m a grown ass man. Being in the presence of my brother had me on the verge of a mental breakdown. He will not allow joy in his presence. He is a master at manipulating any situation into a miserable experience.
If this isn’t demonic possession, I’d greatly appreciate insight or input as to what you may believe we are witnessing.
JESUS CHRIST IS KING!!!!!
I've been sober for three years, and I can almost guarantee you your brother is miserable because he's newly sober. Happens ALL the time. It took me two years before I wasn't a miserable prick anymore. Wish I had advice to give, but I just had to learn to be happy again.
Also a pretty trash time to sober up in regards to the mental burden of what we're seeing.
It's bleak, it seems like there's no hope, there's always something worse around the corner and there is no escaping back to normal day to day life where we don't worry about something world ending every 5 seconds.
Doesn't sound possessed... Sounds like a lack of hope, with some lashing out on top out of repressed fear and hopelessness.
I've been there before I decided that I would fight and rage against the machine when and if it is time.
I have 9 years 9 months 21 days. I struggle to recount the beginning of sobriety. I was withdrawing from methadone, of which the effects were LONG LASTING.
How long did you feel miserable for?
Keep it up pede. One day at a time.
I was coming off of benzos also, so the physical part was absolute shit for probably two months. Was a reading asshole for probably another two years, and still working on it.
Benzo withdrawal will kill you. I never liked them, or alcohol. I thank God for this, often!
Good for you. I’m really happy to hear about your clean time pede!!!!
You’re hardcore if you survived the withdrawals and even more remarkable that you’re clean. Today I pray for you fren.
If you have anger or easily irritated or have a low tolerance for stress, please consider a nutritional deficiency - https://www.amymyersmd.com/article/nutrient-deficiencies-mood/
Agreed, and if he is not getting help, he's on a dry drunk. Took 5 years for my head to clear and common sense finally take over. Without help, he will drink again and then it starts all over. Can't help someone who doesn't want help tho. Maybe Mom should kick him out and create desperation for motivation. Tough love is the only kind that works here.