Jefferson did NOT learn "to carry on an interior conversation with his demons," or "freely manipulate these roles"; rather, like so many before and after him, he withstood a crippling assault on his very being, somehow enduring the hellish punishment that one's own mind can dole out in spades. That he survived his bouts with this violent visitor is wonderful; don't, though, make it seem as if it's something you can "work through," if only you "think right." Much ignorance continues to pervade even the minds of intelligent people like Bockhorn.

There are those who have "been there, done that," and subsequently made it their life's mission to spare others some of the misery they endured; time spent amongst such souls is well worth the investment, both for oneself and one's loved ones. Sooner or later, someone in your family or someone you know will be struck: it's almost a certainty. Knowledge, while not necessarily power, is much preferable to the alternative when that moment comes.

Monticello, Jefferson's home, is 7.4 miles from my house: in winter, when the leaves are off the trees, I can see it on a clear day. It is one of the very few places I have ever been to that far exceeds one's expectations. Not only the house, but the grounds and the gardens, now planted to Jefferson's original design, are most moving. The view is nothing short of spectacular. Standing before the daybed that Jefferson died in on July 4, 1826, is beyond profound. Should you ever find yourself anywhere near Charlottesville, you would be well advised to visit. Let me know: I'll give ya directions!