In my last post, I shared excerpts from my OCD "journal". The journal is actually part of a larger Altered OCD Box I did called "OCD, set me free".
A short definition is pasted across front of box. There is journaling around all sides.
Inside box, is the "journal" made from a paperbag. It has fabric with clock charm along spine. On cover there is a record cover pocket that holds removable record with more journaling.
Inside box lid, there is the word "Frozen" tiled across top. Brain is a shaker box that can be removed from head. Shaker box was purposely made hard to shake.
Underneath the book, there is a secret compartment with hinges, beaded handle and key hole.
When you open the door, there is an altered "OCD" pin that can be worn. The pin represents the 1st key to getting help with OCD--admitting that you have it.
The more people that become familiar with the disorder, the less stigma there will be attached to having it.
When you remove the pin, the words "No more Secrets" are written underneath.
I found the making of this box therapeutic as I do with all creative outlets. Whether it's scrapbooking, dance, painting, crocheting, decorating. You don't have to have OCD to need a reason to do something like this. You just need the willingness to create and to accept your imperfections.
I know when I first started allowing myself to be creative it was actually hard because it can be so personal. There was a big part of me who wanted everything to be perfect for fear that someone might see it and judge me.
You have to let that go though. First of all, it doesn't have to be for anyone else's eyes. It can just be for you and you don't have to be perfect. It seems simple, but realizing that was really powerful for me.
I hope that my project may have inspired something in someone out there.
Organization eventually turned into washing of the hands. Then that became washing the hands and the face, and the neck and ears, etc. everytime I had the urge.
I just have to wait until my mind moves on to the next thought and there's no way to tell when that will be.
I think I have OCD because, as crazy as I know it does sound, it makes me feel like I have some control.
Control being, if you've read my post on dreams, an issue for me. Why? Because I didn't feel a sense of control as a child.
