I've received tons of great advise and support here. Sometimes it seems like I need to hear the same thing over and over again before it sinks in. One feeling, in particular, has been an issue for me. This feeling of being a failure and of embarrassment (I guess two things )<BR>My divorce being final 4/30/01.<P>Let's just say that where my husband once laid next to me in bed, has been replaced by books. I have always had trouble sleeping but it seems like this insomnia is here to stay. Oh well, all that said, I have amassed quite a "unique" library. I come across wonderful quotes, "right ons", and just general great advise.<P>I've just hooked up my home computer-so it is now easier for me to share one of those "right on" moments.<P>This is a quote from my morning reading:<BR>All of us who have endured pain must, at some point go through a trying process of redefinition. We should never be embarrassed by our misfortune. Having been hurt by life is not a sign of weakness; it can be a source of enormous strength, even heroic strength. We have to be willing to look at ourselves and say; "I am a person whose marriage failed". Then we have to be willing to embrace the full force of these words. These words do not define who we are-they define part of who we are. But it is a part we must face and acknowledge.<BR>It is very hard to accept this new self-definition, to identify ourselves as among the wounded. However, when we finally gather up the courage to see ourselves as the vulnerable mortals we are, we may find that this new identity is far less frightening than we had imagined. We are helpless to prevent bad things from happening to us, but the wisdom we gain from our suffering can enable us to appreciate life in a way we have never before known.<P>One more thing, a prayer.<P>I am hurting, God. I feel lost , helpless, and alone. My tragedy seems so senseless. Help me, God, to embrace what I cannot understand, to find meaning in my suffering. Remind me that though I am powerless to choose fate, I hold the power to choose my response to my fate. May I never be defeated. May I never grow bitter. May my sorrow lead me to strength, to wisdom, to compassion, and To You. Amen.<P>Wishing you all a great day!<BR>Petrie<BR><p>[This message has been edited by REJECTED (edited May 03, 2001).]

Petrie,<P>You know it never fails that when I am in "one of the moods" someone posts something that just hits me and makes me feel a lot better.<P>Thank you and I hope you have a great day!<P>Bill<P>------------------<BR>-There are none so blind as those who refuse to see!-

Thanks Petrie.<P>I think we all need to hear these words over and over again!<P>Jen