Deal with it

Stress. We all deal with it in our own way. When something extremely stressful happens in my life I go through a certain process. I call it the first 72 hours. During this time it is best (not to mention safest), for everyone concerned, to just leave me the heck alone. Tuesday night was the start of a new 72 hours. Something that should have stayed long dead and buried reared it's ugly head. And so starts "The Process". In the last 2 days I have been called quiet, antisocial, verbally violent and a few others names that I won't post here, as I try to keep cussing to a minimum. So I will briefly post the process here and see how many others go through something similar.

First day: Raging bear. The first few hours are the worst. It is in everyone's best interest to keep a distant, or you will end up missing parts. Everyone and anyone is free game. Deer in the headlights look is a good indication.

Day two: Whipped puppy. Resignation has started setting in, but don't think the wounded look is any indication that it is safe to approach. Snapping at people is still a distinct possibility.

Day three: I have had time to digest the information and the chance of getting your head bitten off has lessened dramatically.

Is this normal? I don't particularly care. It is how I am. Should I be made to wear a hazmat or explosives sign during the first few hours? Heck no. When people know something is bothering you, they seem to come out of the woodwork offering useless advice and an ear to listen. Those that truly care know the process and just give you space. My brother is one such person. He knows when something is off kilter, and does the one thing he knows is the most helpful. He makes himself scarce. I could do with a world filled with people like him some days.