Does anyone else here feel that, to a degree, their struggle with depression is a blessing in the form of a curse? Sometimes I think that my depression provides me with a much deeper sensitivity than most people ever achieve. Oftentimes this sensitivity is overwhelming and back-breaking.. but it also helps me be the understanding, compassionate person that I have grown into. I am able to help so many people with their struggles because I am able to connect with their emotions, and take them on as my own. Sometimes it is overwhelming being a rock for so many people in my life, especially when I have to deal with my own issues on the side and in privacy. But it also gives my life a purpose. It is extremely difficult at times to absorb other peoples' emotions and help them pull through all the while drowning in my own abyss. Sometimes I want to give up. Sometimes I hate people for leaning on me. Sometimes I hate having to maintain my outward appearance of strength that is vital to my ability to help people. Sometimes I regret ever constructing that image of myself. But when I successfully help someone through a difficult situation, it makes it all worth while. Even though there are times that I want to give up on it all, when I help someone pull through I feel as if I would be willing to suffer a million times more just for that moment of inner pride and that feeling of success and being a positive force in the world.