We'd like to welcome the newest member to the Storybrooke Mirror writing staff, Dr. Archibald Hopper. Our resident doctor is an expert in the mental health field and here to offer advice and support.
Disclaimer: No names will be published to protect the citizens of Storybrooke. To insure privacy, please submit your questions and requests anonymously.
Dear Archie:
Nobody seems to like me. Even my son would rather be elsewhere. I don't know what is wrong with people. Sure, I may not be the most angelic person in town, but that doesn't give them right to think I'm evil. What can I do to get people to like me? Regally yours, Puzzled Politician
Dear Puzzled Politician:
You say you're not the most angelic person in town so you might try actually being nice to people you see out and about. Smile and say 'thank you' and 'your welcome'. Hold off on the sarcasm and try to let go of any grudges or anger. This only leads to stress and is not good for your mental or physical health.
Dear Archie:
I've recently come back into contact with my ex and I've realized that I'm still in love with her. The problem is I'm engaged to someone else. I treated my ex horribly when we were younger and know there's no chance of getting back together despite recently finding out we have a son together. I'm trying to be a man of my word, so how can I honor my commitment to my fiancée and co-parent with my ex. Desperately in need of advice, New from New York P.S. I'll probably be writing back about my Papa.
Dear New from New York:
You can't honor a commitment to your fiancée when your heart is in another place. Sit down and have an honest talk with your fiancée. It will only lead to trouble if you walk down the aisle with her while you're in love with someone else. Also, are you sure you have no chance with your ex? Since you have a child together, you can't ignore the issue. Same advice as with the fiancée. Have a nice long talk with your ex. Honestly is the best policy for a reason. You might be surprised at the feedback you get from such a conversation.
Dear Archie:
I'm an elementary school teacher who hasn't been to work in quite some time. I'm just back from an unexpected journey and had to take a leave of absence from work. Family problems seems to be taking up a bulk of my time and energy. Should I go back to work once the school year begins or devote my time to my family? Conflicted and Confused, Absentee Teacher.
Dear Absentee Teacher:
Young children need stability and attention. If family problems are pulling you away frequently from the classroom maybe it would be best for your students if you left them in the care of someone who can be there daily. If you miss working with them and can afford to quit, consider volunteering or working part-time. I really think you need to concentrate on your family at this time.
If you're in need of any advice, please send your questions c/o "Dear Archie" to the Storybrooke Mirror.
A/NL Finally back to writing after a long absence. I haven't abandoned my other stories it's just major life changes have produced major writer's block. But I'm writing once again and have a few things in the pipeline. Hope you like this. More to come if the reviews are good.
