I must admit that I am finding some of the posts here rather depressing. I don't know if it is the lack of sunshine and the harsh winter weather, but some of the comments seem rather (extremely) hopeless to me the past few weeks. Rather than replying in a way that might not be appreciated, I think I need to take a break from NT. I am sure I will be back.

Oh dear, I am so sorry, Barb. I'm sure my D&D post didn't help you one little bit. I'm actually doing pretty well and am in a good mood and spirits. It was just a subject that came up in my brain and that explains it.

Please don't stay away to long. I love your posts and will miss you.

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.

Barb, I already said what I needed to in our other thread. Do what you need to and come back when your ready.

Barb I know I have sprinkled my own dramas into the forum, but when I am in a corner I need my online family to help me deal. Im sorry if I added to your distress.

Come back anytime you are ready.

Exactly!

Many of us don't have a busy life outside of being at home most of the day....or all day. Our exchanges here with our online family is sometimes the only outlet to the outside world.

Some of the posts make me sad, too. I feel for those going through tough times or situations. That's life, though. Not always a bed of roses. So I just try and leave a supportive post or let them know they're in my thoughts and prayers.

Barb,
I support your decision 100%.But, sometimes I read other forums and think OMG, that really sucks and yes, it depresses me, but tells me it could be worse. Here at NT at the MS forum I laugh sometimes until I spit. I cry and moan at other's heartaches. I'm in awe of other's strength. I tend to skim, not really reading very cheerful and religious threads, because that's not me. Some makes me think. I admit sometimes I read with a guilty pleasure as they are so not me. (Usually crazy complaints, it seems to me and real cranky and angry.) I can interpret to my own reality.

Sometimes I felt I was the weak link, unaccepting, weak, not taking strength from beliefs, what I had, etc. Then someone came along, it wasn't just me, sometimes it really does suck. This is my soap opera, my "normal".
i am in a different place. Wheelchair bound, not driving, I don't get out much. This is my link to other thoughts and worlds.

ps - I never watch TV soap operas - too unreal to me.

Hurry back, Barb!

Barb,

I'm new to this site and I truly understand where you are coming from. MS is truly awful and is a lot to deal with along with everyday issues even if 100% healthy. Some of the posts can be depressing and discouraging but I find a lot of useful information and sometimes its just nice to know I am not alone with this MS. You have to do what you feel is best for you. I hope you find something that makes your days brighter. I want to take a break from life, but I must struggle on. I am not an optimist, I am a realist.

I hope you get what need while taking a break and come back even if is just to check in.

Take Care of yourself,
Sheila

good choice to step away when you can't be supportive. good luck on finding whatever you are looking for Barb.