State Of Mind - Prejudgement

Today I'm going to share an experience I had, while out with my son, that has continued to stay with me.
Prejudgement: an attitude, belief, or impression formed in advance of actual experience of something
State Of Mind:
State of Mind to me means being 100% present, feeling completely at peace inside of you, not letting your thoughts control your life and always looking for ways to be the best that you can be.
This will be the first in a series here on KZbin, however you can learn more about State Of Mind at www.mbstateofmind.com.
If you'd like to learn more about my life, I've recently released a book called "Nothing General About It - How Love (and Lithium) Saved Me On and Off General Hospital" available on Amazon and in bookstores www.amazon.com/dp/0062973371?...
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Film and Television veteran, member of the Actor’s Studio, and two time Emmy Award winner Maurice Benard most recently starred as John Gotti in Lifetime’s acclaimed “Victoria Gotti: My Father’s Daughter,” which aired this year; the horror film “Nightmare Cinema,” with Mickey Rourke, which opened the New York Horror Film Festival certified fresh on rotten tomatoes and was in theatres June 21st; the indie films “Hold On,” and “Equal Standard,” alongside Ice T; and Lifetime’s “A Lover Betrayed.”
Among his other film and television credits are David O’Russell’s critically acclaimed “Joy,” with Robert De Niro and Jennifer Lawrence; “Lucy & Desi: Before the Laughter”; “Ruby”; and “Mi Vida Loca.” The indie film “The Ghost and the Whale,” produced by Benard’s wife, Paula, in which he starred as a bipolar man losing the battle with his illness after his wife’s death, was a labor of love underscored by his strong commitment to raise awareness about mental health issues.
Although Benard has always worked out of the spotlight mentoring individuals in mental health crisis, a letter from a young man whose brother committed suicide while struggling with mental illness moved Benard to begin a public commitment to mental health awareness outside the confines of “General Hospital.” In 2009, on “Oprah,” he shared with the world his own bipolar diagnosis at the age of 22 and the ensuing struggle to manage the illness, from surviving a stint in a mental institution as a young man to becoming a television star. Benard’s journey with mental illness has also been profiled in magazines including PEOPLE, LA LIFE, and BP. HarperCollins is publishing his memoir about the journey, Nothing General About It: How Love and Lithium Saved Me On and Off General Hospital on April 7, 2020.
He has also lent his face and voice to numerous organizations to further the cause, including International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF), the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI), Mental Health America (MHA) and Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, to name a few. For his contribution to mental health awareness, Benard has received numerous awards, including IBF’s Imagine Award, NAMI’s Lionel Aldridge Award, and the Erasing the Stigma Award alongside Carrie Fischer and Rod Steiger.
In addition to testifying before Congress on mental health issues, Benard’s keynote speaker engagements detailing his experience include the annual conference for The National Manic Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association and to hundreds of students at the University of San Diego.
In August 2018, Benard celebrated 25 years on the award-winning series “General Hospital,” cementing his status as an enduring television icon. The popular character Sonny “Michael” Corinthos, Jr. originated with Benard in 1993, initially written as only a six-month guest arc; however, Benard’s powerful portrayal became wildly popular with fans around the world and the celebrated actor quickly took Sonny from a peripheral to central role in the fictional city of Port Charles. Benard has maintained lead status on “General Hospital” for the past 16 years, garnering nine Emmy Award nominations, in addition to taking the statue home in 2003 and 2019.
Benard was previously on “All My Children” as another popular character, Nico, from 1987-1990.
His many loyal fans have not only tuned in for almost three decades, but also repeatedly nominated Benard for a Soap Opera Digest Award, honoring him as a winner three times. Benard has also received a Prism Award and four Latino Media Arts Award nominations.
Benard’s “General Hospital” character has long been on the forefront of socially relevant issues woven into storylines like AIDS and Alzheimer’s awareness. He also pushed for his character to be diagnosed as bipolar so mental health awareness can be front and center on a daily television platform.

[@1crazysista]

I have worked, as a nurse, with profoundly mentally ill adults for nearly 10 years. I spent a lot of time with my clients where they live and in clinical setting. It allowed me to see many sides of my clients and to really see how they are not their disorder. I can see their humanity, their beauty. I got to reflect on my own life and see myself differently. I got to take my own inventory. I got a deeper level of gratitude. I saw a lot. From watching some people get to a higher level of functioning and independence as well as seeing those that stopped taking their meds and the descent into total de compensation (and eventual hospitalization). Working there was a great experience.

[@gingeralexander7229]

Powerful reminder. So often what we see as rude, threatening, “crazy” is just another person’s pain or fear. So grateful for you. 🙏🖤

[@BrazenLee]

I don’t have to tell you how much I love you, Maurice, I think you know. I think you are an awesome person, father, husband, friend & actor. You live by example & the example you live by not only teaches your children how to live, it teaches us, your fans who you are & how much you value humanity & life in general. Thank you for exhibiting the values & principles we should all be living by. Looking forward to the return of #GH on Monday, August 3rd!!! ❤️

[@nancyd5576]

Our son being sick has taught me alot about compassion. We now donate monthly to the local homeless shelter as our way of reaching out. Thank you for sharing yourself. Stay well and God Bless.

[@penni6432]

Mr. Benard, I am so happy that you are speaking up and reaching out to those in need and who share your mental health and wellness journey. God Bless You!

[@terricahoon7943]

I really enjoyed this story! Everyone has pain underneath. Thank You Maurice for sharing! ❤

[@antoinettemarsling2274]

My grandson was diagnosed with bipolar adhd anxiety around the age of 7. Thank God for his Mom my stepdaughter who advocated for him in the schools with doctors etc He is now 15 attending a school that has him flourishing. He is the kindest, generous young man. He graduated 8th grade and received the Directors Award for the student who is always trying may get knocked down but gets up again and continues . Sorry for the rambling but just so proud of him. God bless you for continuing to bring awareness to mental health issues. BTW been watching GH since the beginning . Love bad boy Sonny 🥰

[@vanessastagg7846]

Just having someone who talks about mental health. Is extremely powerful!

[@j.leannh.1688]

Great reminder. We’re all human beings trying to get through this lifetime. 💙

[@declanmcleod9025]

We learn as we live, but when we finally learn how to have total peace within ourselves, we can grow, we can forgive, we can face our own demons, and come out on the other side.....because life isnt about just surviving....its about learning how to be happy individually....not by other's standards, but our own....took me 60 years to finally reach that place, I call happiness....and I'm good with that..after all, I'm the only one that knows what I believe happiness is, for me.....it was in me, the whole time! I always try to treat others with kindness, no matter their station in life...because there, but by the grace of God, go I......this was a beautiful life lesson! Beautiful story....thank you!

[@jameswright5627]

Just when you think you love Maurice as much as you can, he does something like he describes in this story and you love for the story teller (Maurice) multiplies by one billion. MB is the most compassionate human I've ever heard in my life.

[@Raggio4036]

PROFOUND "WE'RE ALL HUMAN BEINGS".....🙏AMEN!! GOOD "SONNY DIDN'T COME OUT"😡 Thank GOD , We Have Learned The Task Of "KEEPING THAT BEAST AT BAY "👏💪As I Have same issue. STAY STRONG MAURICE, And keep doing what you are doing, YOU ARE HELPING A LOT OF PEOPLE WITH YOUR MESSAGES. THANK YOU ♥️

[@heatheredwards7923]

Wow..You are so right in calling this a “profound” experience. Your insight is amazing. And what a powerful lesson to teach your son. I’m so happy you are on KZbin now😊

[@celjque6458]

Im in tears but you did exactly how i have handled situations with my son. We have many moments were as parents we have to educate and teach our children my son is 8 and the world we live in is difficult but all we can do is raise them to be better than we were as youngins. Ive been a fan of yours since i can remember my mom n Grandma watching GH im now 34 and still respectall your hard work. Satay safe God Bless! This is inspireing now im off to work

[@janethogarth6393]

Thank you, and God bless you. Hopefully people listening to you, can help educate us how to help others, with mental illness. Thank you again.❤

[@kellifer62]

This is truly amazing! You're a truly inspiring example of how human kind should behave. And you have obviously raised one hell of a son! 😍🥰💜

[@sonysgirl6301]

I'm so glad to see you back at GH. I try to help homeless people when I can. You just don't know how they got there.❤🌹

[@Iamwoman2012]

Thanks for sharing your story. I deal with people with anger issues. Most after taking time to listen & not react, end up being applogetic. Its not really their intention to scare people they just lose control.

[@marcyjones4154]

Thanks for that story Maurice, everyone has a story we just don't have time to read ! we are all a just a sentence in this book of life. God Bless !

[@leilinatoilolo3649]

That was incredible! I really enjoyed it. I loved the part where you said you didn’t want Sonny to come out. 😉😁😁

[@philiphardman7655]

Hi Leilani my name is Philip Hardman and i wanna say somethin' so much nice to you I enjoyed watchin' youtube right now i loved it so much. I also wanna say somethin' to you my favorite clip is the naked man on "How I Met Your Mother" it was nice talkin' to you. 🙌🏽🙌❤️😘❤️✨🙏🙏💯

[@HowardTheBullTerrier]

Yes, we must all learn to be better human beings.

[@carolyngrant690]

This what i like about Maurice, he is a very caring compassionate person. Dnt jugde ppl , dnt care about ur ethicnicty bc we all have to be mindful of how we perceive each other in this world. Maurice i love u as Sonny but your a better human person as Maurice Benard. I love this side of you. You my friend are so profound.

[@lizzyserna2413]

Love it! We need to remember are all humans and be more kind to another. That story will go a long way with your son Joshua! Be kind humans love more..

[@lovelylace4896]

What an awesome story. I feel that we all are quick to judge because we have been programmed to do so. I love the innocence of children. They always try to see the best in everyone. I felt that was so sweet of your son to offer him his pickle. People always think drugs but many are mentally ill. They are just crying out for help, love, and acceptance. Thanks for sharing this story. God bless you and your family! New subscriber!

[@lightono8881]

We need more kind people like you and your son in this world Mr Bernard 🤗

[@rosemarybrody8133]

Out of many...one person...that man was thankful for the pickle.n couldn't believe someone helped him...that's how I see it..sad..so sad....Ty for sharing. 👍😪🙏❤❤❤❤❤

[@4Dotzopp]

Such an awesome lesson!!! Thank you! I love watching State of Mind, I’ve learned so much about my illness and it makes me feel better to know that it’s not just me.

[@pershadhall4257]

I love that part when he said u dont want sonny becoming out great man and father Mr. Bernard I guess I have of sonny in me too.

[@18Skygal]

Maurice,I want to tell you how much I appreciate and enjoy your stories. They're moving,touch my heart. I believe God will take care of you,your family. You have a caring for people and God sees it. You touch His heart.

[@Alee713]

Ur courage to open your heart in this way is incredible. I get more the depression than the mania and I always wonder what it must be like to know how u will feel when u wake up everyday. People don’t understand why I may clean at 2 am. And my answer is, I don’t know that I’ll want to do it tomorrow. Or the anxiety that comes out for no reason out of nowhere for no real reason. It’s a type of pain u can’t describe to someone who’s never experienced any kind of depression. They think just be happy as if it’s a choice. Thank you. I feel ur heart.

[@magrichnavarrete7642]

Yes this is what you should do, be able to stop and don't react to the situation. See what's going on, and then react.

[@FollowScripture]

Thank you Maurice , I admire you tremendously! You are helping many people understand !Love U

[@dinky1ish]

Thank you for this. I have a daughter who suffers from bi polar along with other MH issues. I am her advocate and have taught her to be proud of who she is.

[@nancymcdowell4799]

Thank you Maurice for talking to us.

[@jessicamatei2116]

Yes, Maurice it was a profound lesson. Your son picked up on your empathy and offered the man kindness. Love is the greatest healer. That interaction had a profound impact not only on that man but your son. That act of kindness, to the man, may have changed the trajectory of his whole life 🙏🏽💙

[@stephaniesunderland1974]

I remember this story. It stuck with me. Thank You. For always being there. Especially now when patients have been discarded during covid.

[@59lisaanne]

Maurice, Thank you so much for doing these testimonies! My partner, well wife always laughed because I would be so serious when my show came on. I told her about you being Bi-polar and she started watching with me. So, long story short, we follow State Of Mind and you help her so much! I surprised her and ordered your book! She lives it! Thank you for taking that step to help others!

[@lynnetteglascock1252]

That was such a moving and touching story! We don’t ever know what people are going through. I’m so glad you chose to be kind instead of lashing back. Your son did a beautiful thing. It’s good he got to witness that. You could have drove off at the beginning and neither of you would have been blessed.thanks for sharing.

[@ethelmcilwain907]

What a powerful encounter and you handled it beautifully - that’s why I adore you Maurice! #amc #gh.

[@bevhogarth9048]

Thanks for your stories Maurice. Makes me not feel so bad about things.

[@theresahappy3259]

Maurice very good story. This is a good place to be. Thank God Sonny didn't show up. The man obviously in need of help. I once came across a man like that but had to hurry away. We were both walking but he also threaten me. I walked to were I was going. Your story had many points. A physical fight wouldn't have helped. But you know you son gave the pickle and reached the man's heart. Your son did not attack. Of course best to be with someone and in a car. You know help is needed before . I have helped people with food those with signs. At the very least he needs a sign help or hungry. (Meds) But that's another story. You have a son with a big heart. Kids need to be protected. Good you and the car were there. Thank you for the story. You look super. Blue is my favorite color.

[@shirleybrown4663]

Yes I know Sonny. He's very protective of his family 😊

[@Jes_yeswith1S]

Powerful and meaningful message not just for your son but for everyone Maurice. I have been a fan of yours since you started on GH and thrilled I found your YT channel. Looking forward to the next vid. Thank You Sir.

[@rebeccabourque7704]

We never know what someone is going through, or their circumstances, and I think it’s so important to remember that when dealing with people. Sometimes it’s hard not to prejudge and I’ll admit I’ve been guilty of it.

[@LGMinnesota]

Great commentary Maurice. My uncle was on the street a lot, family tried to help but after he was in the war, some things just aren't easy to fix. I know people judged him but to me he was awesome and treated me sweetly. I agree, don't judge, you never know what someone has endured to put them where they are. You don't have to give money, but just know a smile can go a long way.

[@Julieglam3]

That was such a powerful lesson for your son. It's interesting how sometimes in those types of situations we tend to mirror the emotions of the other person. Anger and fear are met with anger and fear rather than taking a breath and reacting in the way you and your son chose to do. This is how it's done...compassion and empathy are keys that unlock those doors. 💞

[@loisgreen4372]

No letting Sonny out won’t be to good. You are so nice.💙💙

[@wendiestelita9174]

Oh dear Mr. Benard, your recollection of that incident is compelling. Thank you for telling us this.

[@kimberlyyeager3582]

Okay that was a very good story about you and your son. I didn't mean to laugh when the man approached your son and he was scared of the man. And then you said that you did not want to play Sonny Corinthian from General Hospital! Now that part made me laugh a little. I so very proud of how you talked to the man and Maurice benard helped the man out. I so grateful that Maurice's son gave the man a pickle and thanked him for the pickle and went on his way. That was very kind of Maurice Benard and his son to help a man out! You are a very good Maurice Benard! May God bless you and your family! Love you Maurice.🙏💝💯👍⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@peatsol6866]

I love how open and honest you are.

[@jamigen1]

Killer Story 🕊 Woe, Great example also. Sometimes We want to share things,, but just aren't sure how they'll go over🤔 . Usually there the ones GOD puts on our heart for His Children to embrace. KUDOZ To You... You lil WARRIOR

[@bridget2336]

Wow what an experience. I just want to say how much I appreciate you Maurice and how open you are to the public and fans about mental illness and mental health. By sharing this story you have taught a lot of people watching this video how to have true empathy for someone. You are a good person and may I say you have a really good kid who is learning from your example., so glad you have decided to do state of mind🙏

[@mandiwhite1162]

This was such a beautiful story! It made me cry. Thank you so much for sharing these pieces of your life. God bless you and your family! ❤❤

[@RnR21497]

General Hospital ALWAYS has you looking so fly. You have the nicest clothes! Keep up the good work!

[@pattishumateanderson4633]

Thank you for sharing that story. It is an excellent life lesson.

[@pinksky5762]

You are very strong , how amazing look how many people you are helping.

[@kristinwheeler74]

Awesome, what a lesson for your son. Thanks for sharing

[@patriciaszini2048]

This was really powerful ❤️. I liked the part, when you said you didn't want to bring out Sonny.🤣. There is a lot of mental illness out there, and you handled it with dignity. You are an inspiration to me.

[@catherinerodriguez4598]

That was a powerful story. Thank you for sharing that. Nice to see you. I bet that experience will stick with your son for a long while. "Do you want my pickle?", so sweet. Be safe.

[@stacyhunt4783]

The story is really significant, and the only person that has the right to judge. Anyone is God so you’re right about not judging people. It was very interesting story.

[@JillinOhio]

Currently reading your book. Wow. I have a form of bipolar that can make my life difficult as well, not to the degree many others have. I have a lot of anxiety which causes problems with working if I am in a stressful situation. (more often than not) Can be very challenging making a living at times. I am glad you have a good support system. I have my spouse. And he has me. If I did not wow not sure how well I would do. Thank you for starting state of mind. It's appreciated and probably hard to do at times for you. So I want you to know how very grateful I am.

[@bratsixx1881]

🌞That was a Sunshine moment 😇 Kindness goes a long way in life 💜 👽Humans are Emotional by nature and you both chose understanding over fear and that says a lot about you both 😇Genuine

[@krose5825]

Powerful! Thanks for sharing! Love you and Sonny!

[@gailchypyha2781]

Sonny..watched you from the beginning!! You are great!! My mom watched you as well, actually, she got me hooked on G.H as a teenager, I am in my 60's now. I remember Jessie Bruer, Peter Hanson..

[@michelesanderson5973]

Maurice you're loved by many Thank you for sharing

[@jennifersewer7544]

Thank you for sharing this story. You are so right, at the end of the day we are all human beings. We do tend to forget at times. So thank you again.🙏🙏

[@juliebourdeau8945]

Excellent lesson for all of us, thank you.

[@veronicawinter2711]

That was really good Maurice Most people would be afraid of what he may do .

[@tamaralaticejackson6622]

Great story Sir. I love your spirit and I love Sonny ❤️🙏🏾

[@denisecheverie7074]

You have such a beautiful heart ♡ I teach my son the same, everyone has a story and to demonstrate kindness.

[@brendy92100]

Often our children teach us how to be better parents if we listen.

[@LauraRyan2007]

Don't let Sonny out, Mo. 😂 Thank you for caring about that man, though! 🙏🏻❤️

[@Kare1949]

You are a good man Maurice. Thank you for sharing this.

[@donnaandrews3035]

You did a good thing that day Maurice/Sonny. Love watching you on GH.

[@Sam-cg6rv]

Glad to see you on here.

[@jodiedeleo7016]

Wise words, from a wise man💖

[@carolblackstone8192]

That was a beautiful story .Thank you for sharing it .

[@christophergedert8780]

Thank you, Thank you sir!

[@stahlmsk]

My daughter was just Dx bipolar. So heartbroken!💔

[@joisea9509]

I'm not going to hurt myself, I'm just expressing how I feel. Thank you for your video.

[@dechinta]

We're all human beings.

[@susangurganus5910]

Good bless you Maurice

[@katrinabooth7626]

I Love You Sonny !!!

[@barbarasbeautybag]

Thanks for sharing your stories with us!! 🙏❤

[@wenstrends4852]

Thank you so much for that touching story. 🌼🌻

[@aawendydotcom6349]

You just made my heart open up and cry! (In a good way) thank you for sharing these thoughts and life experiences you are helping in ways you can’t imagine! ❤

[@tamraleone3012]

I love the insta stories and I’m happy to see you on you tube as well. You have a powerful message that needs to be heard! Mental health issues should be in the front of our minds when we think of health care and self care!

[@lindajones8895]

Thank you for bringing this to light. Prayers for you and your family

[@nairbadalamenti6637]

Love that you’re back. Great story Maurice and very powering!!! You’re an amazing man. ❤️👍💯

[@patricks.7090]

Wonderful story and so true.

[@barbarajacobs9386]

Beautiful story w Joshua and this man. We never know what is behind any thought in someone’s head. We are all human beings!

[@jodyschintgen4825]

Thanks for sharing that moment with josh it’s truly inspirational

[@kaesmithmusic]

What's really sad is how many people are in need of help - medication, therapy, a place to live safely, food - and aren't able to get those things. I always wonder what to do when I see someone with a sign asking for money, food, a job. I usually give money and say something like "please take care of yourself" (if it's safe) but I wonder if it's better to have gift certificates for food handy and give those out. What do you think?

[@dubsfanfirst9189]

Followed you over from Twitter! Love these videos! Amazing and so inspiring. I have bipolar disorder to. You and your alter ego Sonny are very helpful. ❤️ All hail the King! 👑

[@TaylorCornell09]

I remember this on iG story but i had to come and listen again, and im teary eyed even though ive heard it before. You were acting as the Pappa bear (Protecting Joshua) so no fault on your part, i truly hope this person got some help, 🙏

[@shirleybrown4663]

I loved that story.

[@celjque6458]

Had to share this with my son! ✌&🧡

[@shawntiprince4062]

Thank you for this! 💙🙏🏽

[@EducatorBarnes]

Powerful story; I appreciate your transparency.

[@deborahbeeks3933]

Thanks for sharing💜