Baby Steps... A Side Step...

Speechless... OK, not entirely! I do find myself shaking my head in awe a lot, as I read your replies. To put that into more perspective, remember that this is a guy who tried to withdraw from the world, to isolate and insolate himself from nearly all forms of social contact... Not out of anger or frustration, but because I had so many unanswered questions, so many unresolved issues, and there was a nearly overpowering need for clarity and understanding...

There were stretches of a week or more at a time early-on, when the only contact I would have at all would be to order a meal or to get a room at night... I found much of what I sought, and it did pay huge dividends, but the over-arching revelation gained from all of that was just how 'normal' I actually was... How much I actually needed other people, human contact, closeness... friendship. I've found all of that right here in spades!!!

There is much for me to feel good about this holiday season, and so much to be thankful for... At the top of that list is the acceptance and 'belonging' I've found with all of you, my good friends... Thanks!!!

DDT