An Adultitis Fighter is someone who rallies against rules that don’t exist and engages in ruthless, senseless acts of silliness that undermine Adultitis and its unadventurous version of adulthood. Once a month, we shine a light upon the most remarkable among us, holding them up as a dazzling example of what we should strive for in this epic battle against a formidable enemy.
This month’s worthy recipient of this prestigious honor is Andy Gullahorn!
In recognition of their efforts, Adultitis Fighters of the Month receive a special mini-canvas hand-painted by Jason, along with a certificate of honor, a sweet patch, and other Adultitis-Fighting tools. We asked Andy some questions about how he fights the Big A and what advice he has for others…
What are some of your favorite ways to fight Adultitis?
I like to think in terms of what will make for a great story in the future and then work backward from there. Also – the best way to fight Adultitis is to follow your passions. What makes you come alive? Then do it.
Who or what has been the greatest influence in your own fight against Adultitis?
I had a mentor and spiritual director tell me 20 years ago that instead of trying to be a spiritually disciplined adult, I should discover what I love to do – and then do it. And that God would meet me there. It also helps that my wife really loves my spiritual director too. So I can blame him for my lack of discipline.
What is something you loved doing as a child that you still do in some form today?
I have always loved games and competition. Not necessarily winning – but just the community that comes with competition. Also – making up games and figuring out the rules has always, for some reason, been appealing to me.
What is your strategy for dealing with people who are obviously infected with Adultitis?
Sometimes my strategy is just to stay away from them. But mostly, I love trying to loosen them up with some humor. But Adultitis can sometimes be contagious. So you have to be careful.
What advice do you have for someone who is feeling overwhelmed by Adultitis?
First piece of advice would be to GO OUTSIDE. If that doesn’t work, then the next step would be to lie down in the grass and just practice breathing for a little while.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I guess I should say thanks to all of the people out there who also taught me how to be an adult and have boundaries and make good decisions without having to be infected with Adultitis. There is a big difference.
Congrats to Andy, November 2022 Adultitis Fighter of the Month. Thank you for making the world more awesome! We got a chance to interview Andy on an episode of Escape Adulthood LIVE about his music career and some of the unique ways he fights Adultitis. [ Wonder & Whimsy Society members have access to the extended interview here. ]