Scott A. Cook - 50 Years of Story

Borrowed Anxiety: How Doomscrolling Warps Our Shared Reality

What the actual fuck is ‘Doomscrolling’? I swear, our country creates the most useless, stupid labels on the planet. Oh, America. To answer the question, doomscrolling is America’s new rollercoaster – a ride we never asked to board. Each swipe of our phone drags us higher with headlines of chaos, then plunges us into loops of fear, outrage, and despair. Unlike a theme park ride, there’s no thrill at the end – only exhaustion that lingers long after we put down the phone. I don’t doomscroll. I’ve never fallen into the habit of endlessly refreshing news feeds, chasing the next piece of grim information, or tumbling down rabbit holes of outrage. But I’ve watched people I care about do it, and I’ve noticed something that worries me deeply: they come away carrying stress that doesn’t even belong to them. It isn’t their tragedy. It isn’t their burden. But after a half-hour of scrolling headlines, they look heavier, more worn down. Their anxiety has been borrowed, absorbed from a stream of strangers, and it clings to them like second-hand smoke. That’s the heart of what doomscrolling does: it transfers the world’s suffering into our pockets, then into our minds, until we feel it as though it were our own. And while empathy is one of the best parts of being human, borrowed anxiety doesn’t make us kinder or more connected – it makes us fearful, exhausted, and divided. Doomscrolling as a Psychological Transaction Current articles online will describe doomscrolling as a bad habit: people get stuck scrolling, can’t stop, and wind up anxious. That’s true – but it doesn’t capture the deeper psychological exchange at work. When you doomscroll, you’re not just reading the news. You’re engaging in a kind of anxiety transaction: • Input: endless negative headlines, disasters, scandals, and tragedies. • Exchange: your brain takes on stress hormones – cortisol, adrenaline. • Output: you carry that stress into your mood, your relationships, and your worldview. The brain confuses exposure with involvement. If you read about wildfires, violence, or corruption for long enough, it feels like these threats are not only constantly happening but also directly pressing on your personal safety. Your nervous system doesn’t know the difference between your neighborhood and the full-blown chaos three states away. The irony? Most people doomscroll not because they like feeling bad, but because it gives the illusion of control: “If I just know more, I’ll be better prepared.” But the knowledge isn’t preparation. It’s paralysis. The Cost of Borrowed Anxiety Borrowed anxiety doesn’t just live in the mind. It spreads like that wild fire you just read about fifteen montes ago: • In households: families argue more, not about personal conflicts, but about the issues they’ve absorbed from online outrage. • In workplaces: doomscrolling during breaks leads to increased irritability and distraction when people return to tasks. • In communities: conversations shift from sharing hope to sharing despair, from solutions to cynicism. On a larger scale, borrowed anxiety distorts our shared reality. If enough people believe the world is collapsing – regardless of actual data – society begins to behave as though collapse is inevitable. Hopelessness becomes a kind of self-fulfilling prophecy. That’s the hidden danger: doomscrolling doesn’t just harm individuals; it shapes the mood of an entire culture. A Compassionate Concern I want to be clear: I don’t see doomscrollers as weak, ignorant, or foolish. Quite the opposite. Most people who doomscroll are deeply empathetic. They care about what’s happening in the world, and they don’t want to look away from suffering. The problem is that algorithms exploit empathy. Social platforms are designed to reward outrage, fear, and sensationalism. The more you care, the more you click. The more you click, the more the system feeds you reasons to worry. It’s like empathy weaponized against itself. People want to stay informed, but the firehose of negativity leaves them hopeless instead of empowered. From the outside, it’s painful to watch. I don’t doomscroll, but I live with its ripple effects. I see how borrowed anxiety changes the tone of conversations, how it darkens moods, how it keeps people up at night. And I wonder, what kind of future are we building if we all carry stress that isn’t ours to bear? Moving Toward a Healthier Information Diet If borrowed anxiety spreads through constant exposure, the way forward is not total disconnection. Shutting out all news is its own form of denial. The goal isn’t ignorance – it’s balance. Here are a few approaches that may help: 1) Choose a single trusted source.Instead of grazing across dozens of feeds, commit to one or two outlets you believe in. Trustworthiness matters more than speed. 2) Set a time boundary.Pick a specific time of day to check the news – and stick to it. Constant updates create constant unease. 3) Replace passive scrolling with active reading.Reading a long form article or analysis engages the mind more deeply and constructively than skimming headlines. 4) Balance negative input with solution-based news.There are outlets dedicated to reporting progress, innovation, and resilience. Seek them out to remind yourself that not every story is catastrophe. 5) Ask: “Does this truly belong to me?”Before absorbing a story, pause and ask whether this anxiety is yours to carry. Sometimes compassion means action – donating, volunteering, calling representatives. Other times compassion means acknowledging the pain but not internalizing it. What Would It Feel Like to Stop Borrowing Anxiety? I often wonder how American society would feel if we weren’t burdened with each other’s constant fear. Imagine walking into a conversation where people were sharing ideas instead of outrage, curiosity instead of cynicism. Imagine logging onto social media and seeing stories of resilience

Chronic Illness, Health, Human Condition, Lifestyle, Opinion / Scott A. Cook

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The Charm of Witchcraft: Why Magic is Just Another Religion

The following article is a delightful account of my intrigue and exploration into the world of Witchcraft. It is a positive look at what many people consider as “evil”. I am in no way endorsing nor denying Witchcraft. For me, it’s just another serendipitous stop along the rail of the Hot Mess Express! Introduction ✎ “If religion had a quirky cousin who liked tarot cards, houseplants, and the occasional crystal, it would be Witchcraft. And honestly? That cousin sounds kinda of fun.” Over the past few years, I’ve wandered through grimoires, blogs, and personal accounts of witches and witchcraft. No hoods, no curses – just people who believe in magic, rituals, and the power of intention. What struck me most? Witchcraft is basically a religion… with just a little glitter, a lot of personal flair, and maybe some lavender-scented incense. The glitter isn’t just aesthetic; it’s a metaphor. For those who practice, witchcraft adds a playful, mindful layer to everyday life. It encourages focus, intention, and connection with the world around them. And yes, it’s fun to imagine casting a “spell” on your Monday coffee cup to make it taste just a little better! Reframing Witchcraft ✎ “Magic isn’t about dragons and curses – it’s about making your own life a little more intentional.” Forget the Hollywood version. Witchcraft is fundamentally a belief system. It has ethics, practices, and a moral framework. Magic is less about changing the universe with a flick of the wrist, and more about changing yourself. Your mindset, your habits, your awareness. Think of it as spiritual engineering. Want a better day? Light a candle and set an intention. Want to connect with nature? Observe the moon phases, the seasonal cycles, or even the way your houseplants stretch toward the sunlight. Want clarity? Shuffle a tarot deck and see what the cards reveal – then maybe chuckle if a cat decides to nap on top of your deck. Personal anecdote: As an adult, my first brush with witchcraft was in Key West, FL. My BFF, Barb, and I were wandering the shops of Duvall Street, the heart of Key West, when suddenly, I saw a tent-like structure across the street lined with colorful scarves, dusty vintage signs and shimmering crystals. We crossed the street and found a medium who, for a mere ten dollars, would do a Celtic Cross reading of the tarot cards. As the lovely woman laid out the cards, she could tell I felt scared and she simple said, “Calm.” Just like that, all my preconceived notions of the occult left my head. My reading? Well, as for most, that is personal but I will say the woman taught me that what she saw and spoke was up for extreme interpretation. She also taught me that, “One day, you’ll remember.” And years later… she was right. The Joy of Rituals and Tools Rituals aren’t scary—they’re intentional acts with tangible tools. A few common items you might encounter: ⋆˖⁺‧₊☽🔮☾₊‧⁺˖⋆ Candles: Set intentions, mark phases of the moon, or just make your space feel cozy. Tarot cards: Not fortune-telling doom, but prompts for reflection and insight. Crystals: Physical reminders to focus energy or meditate. Oils and herbs: Aromatherapy, ritual baths, or simple mindfulness cues. Moon and seasonal cycles: Timing rituals according to natural rhythms. ⋆˖⁺‧₊☽🔮☾₊‧⁺˖⋆ These practices make abstract ideas tangible and create a space for reflection. And yes, some of them are funny when you’re a newbie: trying to meditate with a crystal in your pocket and finding it slipped into your shoe. Personal anecdote: I have always been attracted to crystals and the practice of drawing on their energy for personal growth. Crystals do have an end date for their usefulness but I learned all you need to do is place them out in the sun or a waning moon to “recharge” them. How simple is that! I choose the night under a waning moon. I carefully placed about ten or more crystals on an aluminum tray and took them outside into my backyard around midnight. I laid the tray in the wet grass with care. The sky was clear and the waning moon was bright. I was at peace and couldn’t wait to get back my newly revived crystals the next day. The following morning, as I stepped outside to an upside down tray and most of the crystals gone or hidden in the grass, I quickly learned that raccoons like crystals, too! Why Witchcraft is Positive & Educational ✎ “At its heart, witchcraft is less about casting spells and more about casting light on how we learn, reflect, and grow.” Witchcraft teaches patience, attention, and respect for cycles – moon cycles, seasons, even personal growth cycles. It encourages responsibility: if you intend to do good, you try to do good. Other benefits include: Mindfulness: Observing rituals, herbal preparations, or simple candle lighting. Connection: With nature, community, or oneself. Reflection: Journaling, tarot, or intention-setting acts as a kind of daily self-assessment disguised as magic. Creativity: Rituals encourage imagination and playful thinking – important for personal growth. A Thought to Ponder: Even if you don’t believe in “magic” per se, there’s value in using symbolic tools to focus your mind and intention. Actually we do it all the time: daily journaling, wearing a crucifix, brewing a nice tea for sleepy time. Given the parallel, skeptics might just admire the practice of “magic”, if just from afar. Addressing the “Witchcraft as the Devil” Myth Let’s tackle the big pink elephant in the broomstick closet: the idea that witches secretly consort with the devil. Historically, this myth arose from religious fear, political manipulation, and a dash of creative storytelling (thank you, 15th-17th centuries). Reality check: Most modern witchcraft is entirely secular or nature-based. It does not involve demons, hellfire, or goat sacrifices. The “devil” association is cultural folklore, not

Entertainment, Lifestyle, Opinion / Scott A. Cook

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Festival of Words 2025 – “Pantera”

The word “pantera” primarily translates to “panther” in English. Who knew? It’s the Spanish and Italian word for the ‘large cat’; often used to refer to a black leopard. I choose to use pantera during my very own Festival of Words, coming up from Sept 24-30, 2025. This seven-day celebration is an authorship reflection of myself and my part in the state of the human condition. During this time, pantera will be treated as an ‘acrostic’; each letter of the word stands for a value, mindset, or action that can elevate someone’s life. Pantera also ties into my health diagnosis of the rare, incurable disease, CIDP, and my survival journey of the last twelve years. Power and strength, courage and fearlessness, mystery and spirituality. When I look back, I was a panther in every sense of the word. I still am. Allow me to share the entire acrostic meaning of pantera from my Festival of Words, in case you don’t catch it on social media. As you read and reflect, please realize, with this knowledge, comes the responsibility of sharing it. My Acrostic Meaning of ‘Pantera’ P = Perspective A = Authenticity N = Nurture T = Truth E = Empathy R = Resilience A = Attitude Day 1: Perspective Every single thing we touch, taste, smell, experience and SAY is guided by Perspective. Look around you. Words. Too many words, pictures, desires, falsehoods. Sensory overload. Plastic existences. A world suffocating under its own human inventions. Perspective can change all that. Silence the overload. Remember why it all is. * Temporary is inevitable for everyone. * Perspective is ingenious. * It’s not too late. Day 2: Authenticity Authenticity isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being real. That’s where the magic happens in our daily lives – if you’re brave enough. When we stop trying to be who we think others want us to be, even who we want ourselves to be, and start embracing our genuine selves, something beautiful shifts. Our relationships deepen because people connect with our truth, not our ‘performance’. Our stress levels drop because we’re not constantly managing a facade. We make decisions that actually align with what matters to us, leading to a life that feels genuinely fulfilling rather than exhaustingly curated. To cultivate authenticity is to embark on the most rewarding journey possible: the journey home to ourselves, where we discover that our greatest gift to the world isn’t our perfection, but our willingness to show up as we truly are, inspiring others to do the same. * Embrace the imperfect you. * No apologies. * You know who you are. Day 3: Nurture Your soul needs a big, warm hug and you didn’t even know it! Nurturing is the gentle art of tending to what matters. A friendship, a dream, your own well-being, or even that little plant on your windowsill. It’s the sacred alchemy of conscious cultivation, transforming the raw materials of human potential into extraordinary realities through deliberate acts of care and attention. When we actively nurture the good stuff in our lives, everything starts to bloom in ways we never expected. That friend you check in on regularly becomes your biggest cheerleader. The skills you patiently develop become your superpowers. The kindness you show yourself on rough days becomes your unshakeable resilience. * It’s so simple. * Don’t water the plant, the plant dies. * We can be dead on so many levels. Day 4: Truth I grew up in a household that would not tolerate even the tiniest mistruth. If you did make the mistake of telling a lie, it was time for Dad’s belt. There is something to say about a bit of parental fear but that’s a whole other article. Truth is fucking messy, uncomfortable, and absolutely liberating all at the same time. We spend so much energy dancing around it, sugarcoating it, or hiding from it, but here’s what I’ve learned: living in truth is like finally exhaling after holding your breath for years. To live in truth is to choose radical freedom over comfortable delusion, knowing that while honesty may initially challenge us, it ultimately becomes the foundation upon which we build a life of profound meaning, connection, and purpose. When you commit to truth, you attract people and opportunities that align with who you actually are, not who you might be pretending to be. * The truth will set you free. * You don’t have to like it. * Don’t wait for your death bed. Day 5: Empathy How often do you say, “I see you. I hear you. I understand you.” Do you really mean it? That’s Empathy. It emerges all around us as the essential thread that weaves humanity together, yet we are witnessing first hand its gradual erosion in an age of digital disconnect and polarized discourse. In our rush to be right, to defend our corner of the internet, or just to get through our packed schedules, we’re losing the beautiful art of truly seeing each other. When we pause to really listen, when we try to understand someone else’s story before jumping to conclusions, something shifts. Our relationships get deeper, our communities get stronger, and we feel less alone. * Nobody’s that busy. * Be an architect of Empathy. * “Hey, what’s that like for you?” Day 6: Resilience Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from rough times. It’s about learning to bend over backward without breaking. Some people are masters at this without even realizing it. Think about those living with chronic illness who wake up each day not knowing what their bodies will throw at them, yet still find ways to laugh, love, and contribute to the world. They show us that strength isn’t about never falling down; it’s about getting creative with how you keep moving forward.

Books, Health, Human Condition, Transformation, Truth / Scott A. Cook

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Remembering The Horror Classics

Autumn is coming. So is Samhain. Are you ready? I can suddenly smell Autumn in the air and that can only mean one thing …Halloween! I’m not talking about the Halloween with cute ghosts and clowns running through the streets trick ‘r treating, holding out pails to collect treasures of sweets. No. I’m talking about the Halloween with diabolical monsters hiding in the dark, blending in with the clothes in the closet, just waiting for you. I grew up obsessed with horror classics. Their indelible mark now drives my own horror stories on the page. These vintage monsters make their way into your head, under your bed and into your nightmares. You might be thinking Freddy Kruger from “Nightmare on Elm Street” or Jason Voorhees from “Friday the 13th”. All well and frightening, but where did these iconic demons of death originate from? The answer takes us back in time to a moment when films weren’t as accessible and books were a terrifying portal into a dimension of fear. Authors. Authors of the mysterious and the macabre, the scientific and the mythical. Authors who never knew their work would resonate throughout history and fuel the imagination of hundreds of other stories that chill us and make us keep the hall light on at night. Why They Did What They Did Authors of classic horror literature had motivations behind their timeless tales of terror. They intertwined their fears, curiosities and societal concerns into narratives that deeply resonated with their readers. Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker for instance ventured into realms of science and morality through “Frankenstein” and “Dracula.” In these works, they questioned the boundaries between life and death. These authors skillfully delved into their anxieties crafting stories that revealed humanity’s insatiable thirst for knowledge and the unforeseen repercussions of meddling with nature. Their narratives not only offered entertainment but also explored the darker aspects of human nature provoking readers to contemplate the ethical implications of their own actions. In today’s world, classic horror stories continue to captivate us for reasons beyond thrills. These tales tap into our instincts and deepest fears, creating a connection to our shared vulnerability in the face of the unknown. While times have changed significantly what unsettles us remains timeless. It is this enduring essence that allows classic horror narratives to transcend generations. As we navigate a changing world, these stories offer an exploration of fear, morality and the limits of comprehension – a journey that provides a cathartic experience. They serve as a reminder that our shared, shadowy intrigue of life is not just a passing fad but an ongoing exploration, into the unexplored territories of our own inner selves. Frankenstein and The Mummy Bringing Home The Monsters This year, to celebrate Autumn and the coming of Samhain, take a step into the enthralling realm of classic monsters from the golden age of literature and cinema, where mythical beings and imaginative creations have held our fascination for decades. This exploration invites us to unveil the origins that birthed these iconic figures, some rooted in folklore and mythology while others sprung from the depths of creative minds. The allure of these monsters lies not just in their frightful appearances but in the narratives that brought them to life. Among the captivating figures, vampires and werewolves stand as timeless symbols of both horror and intrigue. Vampires, often tracing their origins to legends of blood-sucking creatures, have undergone numerous transformations in books and film. One of the most notable sources is Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” a novel that laid the foundation for the modern vampire archetype. Moving from page to screen, the character has been portrayed by actors such as Bela Lugosi, embodying the enigmatic allure of the undead. Similarly, the werewolf legend, intertwined with stories of humans transformed under the full moon’s glow, has held a place in cultural narratives worldwide. Lon Chaney Jr.’s portrayal of “The Wolf Man” helped cement this creature’s status in classic horror cinema. The werewolf’s inner conflict between humanity and savagery has continued to captivate audiences over the years. Shifting our focus to mummies and Frankenstein’s monster, we uncover stories of reanimation and resurrection. Mummies, rooted in ancient Egyptian mythology, found their way into films like “The Mummy” series, often characterized by cursed tombs and vengeful spirits. On the other hand, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” explored the implications of playing god by reanimating life, an ethical dilemma that resonates to this day. This tale inspired an array of adaptations, the most iconic of which features Boris Karloff as the misunderstood monster. If these narratives beckon you, don’t miss the opportunity to delve into the original literary works that paved the way for these cinematic treasures. Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” (circa 1897) and Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” (circa 1818) provide an immersive experience into the minds that conceived these monsters, allowing readers to uncover the nuanced layers that often get lost in adaptation. Nosferatu and The Bride of Frankenstein Embrace The Dark As you embark on your journey through the eerie ambiance of Autumn, what better time to indulge in a cinematic journey through the classic monsters? Whether it’s immersing yourself in the chilling portrayal of Dracula by Bela Lugosi or witnessing Lon Chaney Jr.’s transformation into The Wolf Man, these movies transport us to a bygone era of horror that remains captivating even in the modern age. If you’re curious about where to catch these classic films, various avenues await. Many local cinemas and theaters host special screenings, offering an opportunity to relive the thrill on the big screen. Additionally, streaming platforms often curate selections of classic movies, making it easier than ever to revisit or discover these gems from the comfort of your own home. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights and prepare for an evening of spine-tingling delight as you traverse the golden age of classic monster cinema. These legends continue to enthrall and terrify, reminding

Books, Classics, Film, Horror, Reading / Scott A. Cook

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Legacy – Now You See Me Now You Don’t

In 2021 and 2022, I faced death. Twice. I underwent two major spinal reconstructions. C1-T5; brainstem to middle of my back. Each surgery required serious metal hardware and came with a stern warning tag from my neurosurgeon: “Before we proceed with surgery, you must understand that you have a medium to strong chance of waking up paralyzed. And a fifty-percent chance of not waking up at all.” What the actual fuck? First I have full blown CIDP then after years of working to contain this rare, incurable shit-fest of a disease, I might die from a spinal whack-a-doo whatever. What the actual, actual fuck? The emergency surgeries were all due to my spine disintegrating from long-term use of the steroid, Prednisone. I have lots to say about the use of Prednisone. But that’s a whole other article. Now, I didn’t write this piece to have you organize a cheering squad screaming, “You’re amazing! You’re a rockstar! We’re here for you!” No, the reason is a much deeper quandary. I was being triggered into depression for three years after the surgeries. And it was the most empty feeling I’ve ever experienced. Day after day, after fifty years in theatre, I realized that so many of my super close friends or day-to-day colleagues had either ghosted my attempts to communicate or worse, just never checked in on me at all. Three years of nothing. Truth. It rocked my world to the core and brought to the surface a word I guess I had taken for granted all my life. Legacy. Theatre singer, dancer, actor turned teacher, director, and choreographer for so many years made me feel strangely empowered with the sense I would always leave behind an indelible mark on everyone I touched. They would remember me and honor me as an amazing source of theatre leadership, full of knowledge and passion. And a dear friend who always practiced unconditional love. In my life, I was that person who never stopped to rely on anyone, save for my best friend Barb or my partner, Abel. But I needed people now, more than ever. And just as I was reaching out, the most tragic, bizarre mass exodus of friendship occurred. “If they weren’t here for me now, would they bother to be here at the end of my life? More heartbreaking, would I even want them there?” And thus, the word legacy kept pounding on my brain every day, for three years. A cruel, rustic mallet that would not let up. To survive, sometimes we have to reinvent. Which brings me to how I finally transformed the meaning of that torturous word in my life. What Is Legacy, Really? Legacy. It’s a word we often associate with greatness. Fame, fortune, or something we leave behind to prove we were here. But what happens when your life doesn’t go as planned? When illness rewrites your narrative, or the spotlight fades too early? What if the only person who remembers your life is …you? “Legacy isn’t always what we leave behind. Sometimes it’s what we leave within.” Let’s explore the evolving meaning of legacy through the eyes of those navigating chronic illness, lost time, aging artistry, and personal reinvention. In Youth, Legacy Is a Performance In my 20s and 30s, legacy felt like a performance – choreographed by ambition and driven by the belief that visibility equals value. For many entertainers, artists, and dreamers, every gig, role, or opening night seems like the next step toward “being somebody.” I’ve seen it many times. Myself included. “For performers chasing legacy, every gig feels like a step toward immortality.” But time may have other plans. And the pursuit of legacy might begin to feel like building a sandcastle with a tide schedule no one ever warned you about. The Cruel Interruption: Chronic Illness and the Disappearing Trail For those living with chronic illness, your story can take a sharp turn. You don’t retire your dreams – you’re forced into a new life. Jobs disappear. Social circles shrink. Your old self becomes a memory wrapped in pain and medical appointments. Been there, done it. “You’re told to ‘pivot,’ as if reinvention were as simple as rebranding a business – not mourning a self.” The Aging Artist: Fame, Echoes, and Empty Hands Entertainers – actors, musicians, dancers – often live in pursuit of legacy. I know I did. But gigs are fleeting, and fame is fickle. One day you’re adored, the next, forgotten. “You spent decades giving people joy. Now, no one texts back.” As age creeps in, many performers find themselves with nothing but the echoes of their youth. The industry just keeps moving on without them. So who were you really doing it for? That’s a great question. Stop and think, like right now. Maybe We’ve Got Legacy All Wrong Here’s a radical reframe: Legacy is not what the world remembers about us. It’s what others carry because of us. The student who found courage after watching you endure. The stranger who smiled longer because you were kind on the worst day of their life. The daughter of a nurse who chose medicine after hearing your story of strength. “Legacy is not always about what we do. Sometimes it’s about what we survive.” The Art of Cracked Wholeness There’s a Japanese concept called kintsugi—the art of repairing broken pottery with gold. The cracks aren’t hidden; they’re honored. “Maybe our truest legacy lies not in being whole, but in being visibly broken—and still willing to shine. Whether you’ve surviving disease, anonymity, or the slow fading of your previous self, your story matters – even if no one applauds at the end. New Questions – Later Years As we age, hopefully our relationship to legacy shifts. We stop asking “How will they remember me?”

The Human Condition, Transformation, Truth / Scott A. Cook

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