Theta Z,

You have hit the nail on the head when you said <By now I've hard-learned that I simply must/have to allow myself total, unquestionable permission to "Rest, Rest, Rest" when I know that I need to do so.>

It is very important to learn to store up mental energy for an intense event and then to prepare to rest after an intense event.

The only problem with this is this preparation leads others to believe that you can tolerate or preform at this intense level anytime you want. They do not see the before and after accommodations.

I prepared like this for a Work Comp hearing with an Administrative Law Judge and he ruled against me specifically because of my ability to perform for this short (2 hour ) period. He disregarded the fact that I had to keep my eyes closed during the hearing so I could maintain my concentration.

I wonder how many jobs he is aware of that can be done with one's eyes closed.

PCS is consistent in one thing. It teaches you the best lessons the hardest way.