Hello Barb,

I'm not sure if we are acquainted here on NT and I do understand how you may feel this way. My first question that came to mind is why are these other people's posts affecting you in such a manner?

I see the same posts you do and choose which ones I shall read and respond. Many times they are subjects I have no interest or knowledge so I don't even open them. Some I feel like I may be of some assistance with another point of view and trust me, I share my view whether some appreciate it or not. That is their choice.

From my unique perspective some of the threads are more expressions of passing situations or moods with the hope at least another here experiences or experienced the same thing. Thus, some kind of confirmation we aren't going crazy. I however, am crazy so there is no challenge.

When faced with your current situation, I will openly look for a post to respond to and do so in a most positive way. That may require a major thought change on my part but I and many others benefit and I feel better about them and myself.

I've found not giving these depressing posts permission to have control over my attitude and allowing someone else's hopelessness to cause such an impact on my life by taking ownership of their challenges. All of which, I have no control so why am I giving someone else that kind of control.

OMG! My response to you really sucks here, doesn't it? One last thought. Should you like to vent or discuss in more detail your challenges, I'm totally open to listening in an unbiased nonjudgmental manner. Although I can be if that's what you want, including providing unsolicited irrelevant advice. Something I read and keep in mind, "Live each day as if it were your last. Learn each day as if you will liver forever."

Peace be with you Barb.