shutterbug, you know I haven't read the whole thread, but I was quite interested in this idea for a time myself. Guess I am just not ready to be open minded about it right now. But you really made an astute point about how if people knew about those famous and successful people like Honest Abe they might think differently. I wish I had that hope. I am very aware of the stigma. I no longer tell others that I am mentally ill, presuming them to understand it is a physical/chemical disorder. I have seen too many times and felt the stigma and how it damages me. I will never again let any one I work with know.
I do think science has shown that these things are passed along in our DNA. There is no doubt my father's side has had some real eccentrics.
Just for fun, would you mind going to the recovery follies and do the quiz, what tarot card are you? I am curious what yours would be. It blew my mind how accurately it pinned me and my hubby. Can't wait for my sis to take it.
love,
live