i'll take your word for it, so good for you for doing so well and being so strong. keep up the fight.

Thanks MojoPaw, I probably shouldn't have posted this, I know it doesn't make much sense.

Hey, you are not just good, you are great! Make a list of good things about yourself. I can think of a few. You are loyal and supportive and kind and never attack anyone, and you post regularly on the board. You are caring and helpful.

So just think about the good, and I know you will find a lot more things. And don't let yourself slip into despair again. If you've been doing well, you can keep doing well. I've been out of depression for 7 years now. With only a few bad moments. So if I can do it, so can you! Hugs

Heretic, I can tell you were in a darker place but are doing better. When I first came here a lot of your respoonses had a gloomy side to them. i was thinking just yesterday how much brighter your responises are. You've always been caring and supportive, but you could tell it was at a cost. Now it's --lighter. Glad things are better for you.

You're doing an excellent job, heretic. Keep on keepin on. All people function better when they receive encouragement and it really is too bad that more of us don't receive it more of the time. I applaud you for asking for something so very basic as a pat on the back as that is a truly humble thing to ask.

Heretic, I've noticed a change in your responses, too. You have a great sense of humor that is starting to come out. I agree - lighter is the right word. You just seem lighter and more hopeful. Keep up the good work. It seems to be working for you. Big Hug!!!!!! MK.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1bcQMCZ5gU

Yes. If you don't have folks to tell you how far you have gone then what happens is that you lose hope.

I hate that "Platonic forms" thing where everything in the universe goes towards a state of perfection.

You find this serendipity with Christianity and with life. Indeed, it would help to know that you have arrived.

I have a sister named Meredith. To look at her, she seems like she's "all that." The blacks would say that she has a lot of "bling." But she is insecure and has always felt that she wasn't smart enough. She's a Columbia graduate.

heretic.....I find you to be one of the most intellegent , and insightful people I know.

You have much wisdom and even in hard times , you are realistic and try your best to move forward.

Encouragement , hugs

Heretic, I am not around everyday but I have still noticed a change in you. You've been very open lately, I've seen the fighter in you come out, I've seen you drop your guard and step out of your comfort zone and admit that you need support and help even though you are afraid to admit it... I could keep going on but you get the idea I am sure.

You are doing unbelievable good!!!! I wish I had the same strength in certain areas, I admire you =)

((((((HUGS)))))

((HUGS)) and warm wishes sent your way. You are an awesome part of this board, and it wouldn't feel whole without you. I think you are totally cool and really helpful to others. I hope you start feeling better real soon. Love you, hon!

Thanks to everyone - your responses are warm and kind, and much appreciated.

It is very difficult for me to give myself credit where credit is due, even when I'm feeling well...so when I'm feeling stressed and down....UGH!!

A couple of things that have helped me cope; 1) journaling...it helps me get things off my mind, as well as sometimes seeing a different perspective than I get just thinking things over. 2) this is more difficult for me, but if you can manage to think of yourself in third person; what if one of your close friends or relatives were in the same situation that you are in right now? What would you say to them? The same thing applies to you, too. (as long as it's encouraging!! )

((( hugs )))

good job! and keep on truckin'