Seems like me and I am learning we must really push ourselves ain’t nothing to it but to do it. Face fear in the eyes and say get away from me I am strong I am able some have no hands but learn to use their feet. Some are blind but face the world in darkness everyday if they can do it so can we.. The world is happening all we have to do is jump in and go for the ride!

sweetperson

Thank you so much for the thoughtful words. You are right. Sometimes we all need a little perspective.

Can you consider helping others. When depressed, I found that despite my various failing, the fact that I was a positive force in the world, through food drives and other things, was meaningful.

For friends, you do have to be a little aggressive and take the first step. Then you do what books like How to Win Friends and Influence People say, listen, talk about the other person's interests, smile, though these things can be difficult.

Bobby5000

Thank you so much for your kind words. I am really struggling with the push myself part but I guess I’ll have to try harder. Ingrained in me is the notion of putting everyone else first and now that I have to put me first I’m paralyzed with fear. I imagine to others it seems like a simple task but to me it’s like moving a mountain.

Hello penpen, I know thy feeling is like and understand you very well. I have been in a position when I had to ask myself where do I start from? For me my go to place when I don’t have anywhere to go has been church. If you go to church, then find a group in the church to join. You can look for a dancing class or Zumba or exercise group to help you interact in your area. You can also look at volunteering at Library or a school. Give yourself a definite time and make all effort that day to take that step. What are some of the options in your neighborhood?
You have to learn to be the loudest positive voice in your head. When you put your heart to it you can do anything you desire to do. As long as you will not stop trying even if its one step a day you will make progress with time. Sometimes you need someone to give you a push. So, I want to challenge you to take one thing you can do this coming week. Just list some thing you wish you can do this week and see how we can go around it.

I feel the same way and it IS like moving mountains. I started going to church 3 years ago and still haven't joined a group within the church. There's a 3 week (once per week) session entitled, "Why believe in the bible?" which I thought might be interesting...but, how do I put myself out there. I'm a Christian but I don't know nearly as much about religion as the people at the church...I also know they're not judgemental but it makes me feel inadequate. My husband died of brain cancer 3 years ago and he was so outgoing....I miss him so much and now realize that it was because of him that I was able to enjoy going out . I feel empty and my confidence level is gone. I'm suffering depression so how does one get out of this rut?? I'm going to challenge myself this week by joining that church group....maybe you could do the same? I also started volunteering at the hospital working with dementia patients...I'm stressed going there but am managing. It's only once a week. Bobby5000 was right...somehow doing something positive seems healthy. When I'm at the hospital, I forget how lonely I am...until I get home and sit alone at the dinner table. Every little bit helps.

Mir
I’m so very sorry for your loss and pray that you find comfort in that church group. I feel like such a failure because I can’t seem to force myself to take action. I think though if you can do it I can try too. Thank you so much for your kind words.

Hello Penpen,
I’m sorry that you feel this way.
Have you tried to volunteer? It’s a good way to know your purpose and you will realize that you are making a difference in someone’s life.

For friends, is there a life group in your church? A life group can be your friends, they will encourage and pray for you.

Praying for you that all will be with you. Please keep us posted. God bless.