Hi Jace,

I know you've been at this thing for some time (1.5 yrs.?), but I was "pushed" into having lunch every Tuesday with my mother-in-law ( now passed away) and 3 other women who spent time with her to get her out of the house. It was about 6 months after the injury, and I was in no shape to be out amongst others, or so I thought.

Even though it was really tough at first, esp. with my m-i-l's Alzheimer's and the many times her incoherent conversation would freeze me up completely, I eventually found "shelter" in those 3 women, who have still been by my side and my best "protectors" other than my family if I am in social situations with them. I gave them a chance to understand and help me through this.

I would encourage you to try 1 or 2 good friends to chat with or go over to their/your house with even twice a month, if you can. It will be hard at first, but it does get easier when you are with people who begin to understand your difficulties, but still keep you socializing and feeling like you have something to look forward to. And nothing replaces real face-to-face social interaction.

It's amazing what difference something that small can do to change your outlook. I was at a very low point in my life when these women took me under their wings, and I have since always referred to them as "my lifeline." I was fading into social obscurity and feeling like I would never be able to contribute anything anymore, as I was working full-time in the medical field and playing in 2 bands.

Their friendship and their patience got me back to feeling like I mattered again, and that I could still contribute my opinions, my insight ,even though it was even more difficult then. As the commercial says; "priceless".

As you gain confidence, your other relationships (i.e. family/dtr.) will benefit, too. You are obviously still well-spoken and insightful. Just need to see yourself through other's eyes to gain back some of what you miss. We will help you as we can on this site, as you know.

Take care, Jace. M-i-m