I've been humbled by PTSD over the years. I've had to accept that, at least in my own case, it probably won't ever be completely banished from my life. I've learned not to have grandiose expectations, but be grateful for little things. A nice streak of good sleep at night. Good dreams now and again and not just nightmares. Being able to work for two years now after the last time PTSD forced me to take a break from working.

So I say this carefully. But it's gotten to the point this week that four different people have come to me for help with their lives. People at work facing challenges we all face.

In each and every case, I didn't act the hero. I didn't take the person on as my own project. I made a referral to a therapist or whatever the situation called for. I was careful. But I was also grateful to be seen by some people as someone strong enough to turn to, at least right then. Because living with PTSD, I'm daily mindful of my weaknesses.

I think part of the credit goes to being here. My self confidence has risen since I started participating here in DS PTSD. It makes a difference. Thanks, everybody.

Anybody else finding themselves slowly becoming less of a victim at times, less of a survivor, and someone with, on occasion, more to offer? It's nothing I'm getting cocky about. I know we all take turns. I'll be down again and needing support again any day--that's the way it is with PTSD for me, anyway.

But it's nice to be leaned on once in a while, too. Validating. Has it happened with anyone else here?