Dr. Darnell A. Durrah

Ever feel drained from certain things, people, conversations, or places? I know I have. Many think they know me, but they don’t. One thing that is consistent about me is my energy and passion. I am going to stay committed until it is no longer healthy for my own mental, emotional, or spiritual peace. I’ve heard, you are like that because you’re a Taurus. Perhaps, but I’ve encountered many other Taurus either April or May that don’t have similar personalities, so I could argue against that statement.

Nevertheless, let’s stay on this drained feeling. Those that I’ve worked with, regardless of the setting (juvenile/adult corrections, community services, military, etc.) would most likely say, I have high energy and am passionate. This is true, both professionally and personally. I can’t fake the funk. My pops used to say, “study long, study wrong.” While my mom said, “don’t play me, play the lotto.” So playing games for fun has never been in me. I do everything with a purpose. So, if I play anything, I’m playing to win. I have never been an individual sports type dude. I have always preferred team sports/activities. So, keeping myself mentally prepared for my teammates, coworkers, or friends is always my primary focus.

Now, you might be wondering, D what and where are you going with this one? Let’s just say, it is extremely difficult for me to establish and maintain meaningless relationships. As I said, I can’t do fake! That has nothing to do with my zodiac sign.

Perhaps growing up on the West Side of Compton, also known as the duce line has had more of an impact on my personality.

Perhaps, being around my grandfather who was a community Leader, and deacon in his church, and evenhosted a voting center in his house on 139th Street and Central.

Perhaps, spending time with my grandmother, who raised 12 kids and several grandkids and then decided to enroll in college where she graduated from Compton College. All while being active in the community and her church.

Or even my uncles who would pick me up on the weekend as a little kid and take me to the local donut shop where this little dude would just soak in all the knowledge and or “shit talking” the old heads would talk while drinking a cup of coffee (note: why I don’t support large chain coffee shops).

Perhaps, because of my mom. My momma, also known as “Auntie Rhonda,” would be the life of any party. Everybody knew my momma in the neighborhood. Even my dad, ole senior. Now, pops was the OG. He doesn’t say much, but his ability to navigate the streets and life has been impressive. But, my dad has always kept his day ones a little closer.

Now, most times I blog to get my thoughts out of my head and make sense of things. I started with how people can drain your energy. I refuse to allow my energy to be depleted by meaningless relationships or even wasteful conversations. I have tried to engage with others in social settings or relationships either intimate or non-intimate that wasn’t mentally, emotionally, or spiritually fulfilling. I refuse to participate in those types of engagements again. So, it’s nothing personal, it’s just how I protect my peace.

Now, what sparked this blog was as I walked out of the house for a walk, I noticed an amazing sunset. I was automatically energized. As I finished this blog, I challenge you to discover what energizes you.  Then I encourage you to remove those things, people, conversations, and places that deplete your energy. – Dr. D

Would love to hear your thoughts…