Retail Therapy

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By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher

There’s a word I’ve heard with a significant degree of regularity over the past 15 years or so – a word that as a child, I never recall hearing.

I’m not at all certain that the word, or the concept, even existed when I was growing up.  Now that I look back on it, I heard similar words and circumstances that likely were a simile of the expression. I did hear about folks, especially women, taking to their bed.  I also heard about folks, again, mostly women, being sent away for one reason or another.  The one reason was typically to have a baby then return home sans baby.

Then there were the stories about the “nut house.”  Being from the South, I always thought that was a peanut factory.  We ate and grew peanuts a lot; therefore, the reference was valid in my little mind.

The word that has become so pervasive in our society, other than used in a medical incantation, I must confess, alludes me at times.  I understand folks needing therapy as a tool for healing from an injury, illness or disability.  In fact, I’ve done it, and I’m a big proponent.  Heck, I married a Speech Language Pathologist who worked as a therapist.  Mr. Kaminski was very good in his role with so many successes with his patients.

I believe in pretty much anything that provides a unique, healing, powerful experience.  My concern is that the word and concept of therapy have become too commonplace in our society.  I have had many friends, again, mostly women, subscribe to the power of therapy.  And it’s helped them.  For that I am thankful.  I do question, however, why is it mostly women?  Could perhaps men actually be the root cause of my girls needing a healing experience?

Now don’t get twisted boys.  I’m merely posing the question. The odds are ever in your favor when it comes to reviewing the statistics.  According to the Center for Disease Control, nearly one in four women or 24.7% participated in therapy compared to 13.4% of men in 2019.

I believe in healing experiences and therapy.  Retail therapy is what works for me.  Every.  Single.  Time!  Whether it’s TJ Maxx or Neiman Marcus, I go.  I shop.  I conquer.  I depart delighted with full bags and ready for the unveiling that Mr. Kaminski must both sit through and respond appropriately.  He’s mastered it at this point.  It’s only taken 32 years.  Does he enjoy it?  Likely not, but I do, and that’s what matters in therapy.  See y’all next week – on the porch!

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Patti Parish-Kaminski

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