As this is my second day working here at my new job, I realize how very much alike I am as the members.  I have PTSD which is a "mental illness of sorts".  I have had 2 depressions prior to therapy.  I listen to the stories of these members and truly know what it feels like to be in the depths of despair.  Their mental illness was not because they did anything wrong.  It happened and now all of these members are looking for support, a sense that they are not alone.  Have I not felt so alone with my struggle.  I am soooo glad I have chosen to be a part of these peoples lives. I have healed significantly to be the person that will cheer them on as I have been cheered on to just fight the good fight and heal.  This job is a gift.  I have looked at my healing as a gift, in spite of all the feelings and despair I have felt in my life.  When you receive a gift you pass on that gift to others.  My hope is that I can do that in this new job, this new challenge.  I have been given an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.  I will relish this opportunity to help heal those who have known at times there was no  one to turn to.  This club gives them that chance to feel as tho they are of value not only for themselves but for others.