I have a condition called Tinnitus. What that means is I have a ringing in my ears. It never stops. It is 24/7. Sometimes it is worse than other times, but it is always there.

I have considered writing about it before, but didn't want to come across as some self-absorbed whiner. Recently I have thought differently. Maybe there are others out there nearby with the same condition. Maybe we can help support each other.

There are times it is so bad it is almost completely debilitating. I can't function. I can't concentrate. I want to tear my head open and pull the sound out, but I can't.

I have been to ear specialists. I have had MRI's on my head. Yes, mom, there is a brain up there. I have proof.

It is not a secret as to what may have caused it. I run chainsaws and chippers for a living. Even though I use ear plugs and muffs on my hardhat, the noise is intense at times.

When I see young people with their iPods, or pull up next to a car with the sound up so loud you wonder how their windows stay in place, I worry for them. I know what can happen.

It is a bit of an irony that I bought some land out here where it is so quiet. I love quiet, but now I often prefer a bit of "white noise" to help me get past the ringing. Too much quiet and that's all I hear. Like right now.

I drink decaf cofee and take ginkgo biloba. I avoid salt. I should probably avoid alcohol but I haven't gotten there yet.

I can't really describe what it sounds like other than a high pitched ring. Remember those radio emergency test signals? It is kinda like that.

Anyway, one of my resolutions this year is to reach out a little more. Anybody reading this with the same problem? I'd love to hear about it, and what is working or not working to help you cope. Maybe we can help each other out.