Last week Wakana asked me to write down the themes that have emerged in my playing of The Sims 3. The themes I’ve recognized so far can be categorized as Social, Vocational, and Existential. One – perhaps the – major theme inherent to the game is Death.
Social Themes
- being accepted as I am and supported in fulfilling my dreams
- emphasis on family relationships and friendships, not romance and marriage
- “loner” vs. charismatic socialite who makes friends easily
- communication even when it is perceived as “mean” (i.e. assertiveness, honesty)
- What influence does the perception of others have on my life?
- dressing stylishly to improve my confidence and to express myself
- maintaining and strengthening relationships
Vocational Themes
- balancing goals, responsibilities, needs, and impulses
- socioeconomic mobility
- building on the success of previous generations
- adapting to life circumstances
- pursuing passion vs doing what it takes to pay the bills
- innovation even when others think I am and/or my ideas are crazy
- motherhood; balancing work and family
- working together within the family to help everyone meet their vocational goals
- living a successful and fulfilling life with a mood disorder
- “reaching the top” of my career
- I have the knowledge and skill I need to fulfill my goals, but how do I find the required “ingredients” (e.g. internship)?
Existential Themes
- What is my connection to the past?
- e.g. family tree / heredity / lack of connection with parents & grandparents
- accepting what already exists and building on it
- What influence will I have on future generations?
Death
- the pain of losing loved ones / important relationships
- change, especially in family dynamics & relationships
- being haunted by (the memory of) a deceased loved one
- happens to everyone, but we can’t know when or how
Today we talked about the social themes. I need to stop caring what other people think about me, accept myself, and be authentic. I’ve made some good progress in that department, and it’s a process I continue to engage in. During our session she got me to tap into, name, and own some of my inner resources. (“That person who was just talking to me, who’s that?” “Me!”) I’ve also been doing all sorts of awesome adult things all day – despite being tired, sad, and (most recently) nauseous. It feels good.
a day with depression 
Reblogged this on mgwebbuddy.
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