Hi Anita

Now they are trying self service checkouts. Where you scan things and put them on a scale to be weighed and there is often a camera to prevent theft. You have to press options on a screen.

Most new cards do contactless. So all you do is tap it against the card reader. But to use that feature you have to put the card into the box with the keypad and put the pin number in then press the enter or green button. After you do that once you can use contactless. Occasionally they do make you enter the pin again as a safety measure.

At a register the cashier will often direct you where to put your card if it looks like you’re struggling because there are so many different types of card readers. There is usually a slot to pop your card in somewhere. I always indicate whether I’m paying by card or cash to the cashier, because they have to turn the card reader on. If you struggle with the card reader, give your card to the cashier. They are used to helping. 😊

I appreciate that you’re a very compassionate person and very thoughtful about your politics. Not everyone is so kind. ❤️

Bless well you can’t be too careful in this world. It is sensible not to hitchhike. I’m glad you stay safe. It’s good that you enjoy walking too.

It could be nice for you to get some new clothes, if you’re interested there are so many different styles and options nowadays. It is a form of self-expression for many.

I’m impressed that you manage to get by without money. You must be a very resourceful person. ❤️

Thinking of you!

Hi Anita

I feel badly for all of the people (and their loved ones) involved in the ongoing conflicts with Israel. I fear this will not be the end.

Governments are flawed all over the world, but it is truly the people that suffer when wars break out. No one deserves to die so that the rich can make even money by selling weapons.

Hi Anita

It sounds like you have so much weighing on you at the moment. Even one of the issues is a lot to deal with.

Very true, sometimes it feels like being an adult we are expected to cope with more and more and more. It can be very overwhelming. Yet, somehow we are expected to pretend that we are all fine through our difficulties? Square it away into little boxes and not think about it until we have to, pretending that it doesn’t exist? Or someone says try feeling your feelings for 15 minutes a day?

I cannot imagine what it is like to endure what you are currently going through. You might not see it, but you have a lot of strength. I am praying for you, as well as your family. ❤️

I’m glad that you have this space to explore, to feel, to reach out.

Your mother may not have seen you, but plenty of people here have. You are a good and special person with a big heart. I love seeing you open up. ❤️

Hi Anita

Thanks for your kindness and understanding!

I try and communicate with people online the way that I communicate in real life.

I think it was one of your posts that wasn’t addressed specifically where you mentioned that you didn’t want sympathy or empathy.

I wasn’t sure if that was a one off or an indication or if you were seeking a new communication style. I didn’t want to hurt you by overstepping in a way that you weren’t comfortable with.

It’s okay for people to have different preferences and I do appreciate when you share these things.

I’m glad that you weren’t hurt. I wouldn’t want to make you feel uncomfortable. ❤️ 🫂

Maybe the reality of being alone is that I prefer it as a concept or an emotion to a practical reality. I used to have panic attacks when left alone because my biological mother left us alone often at a young age. I like having a calming caring presence nearby. A dog is enough for me to feel safe. I used to feel uncomfortable when left with my own thoughts, but not anymore.

I don’t think anyone deserves to be alone, it is a shame that life is that way sometimes. ❤️

Hi Anita

Sorry I planned to write to you yesterday, but it turned out to be a bit of a rough day. I’ll try to write as soon as I’m able. Thinking of you! ❤️

I’m sorry that things are so difficult for you and your loved ones at the moment.

I agree that one day, one moment at a time is a good strategy.

I find that gratitude practice is really helpful for appreciating life even when it has difficulties. It is really hard to do when things are difficult at first, so I skipped the rough days. Eventually, it does get easier though and it opens up to seeing the good even on bad days.

It isn’t a quick fix. But in time, it helps.

Another thing that I found to be helpful is to practice mindfulness during an activity that I enjoy. For example, walking the dogs. Focusing on that moment, putting one foot in front of the other, looking at the trees, seeing the dogs enjoy themselves. It helps to ground me. If worries creep in that is okay but back to focusing on the moment when I notice. It is important to take time for ourselves when we can.

You deserve to be happy Anita! I think you’re a really special person. I believe in you! ❤️

Hi Anita

I think that being scared is okay. They are your loved ones and it shows that you care. I’m sure if things get worse people will be allowed to leave Israel and take shelter in other countries. Perhaps it might be worth discussing this with them and figuring out how to plan for something like that?

Being there for them is more than enough.

Has the depressed person ever hurt themselves or anything before? Do they drink? Are they experiencing any significant life changes?

It is sad to see people that you care about hurting. Remember to take a break and take care of yourself when you need it. You cannot help others if you burn out. ❤️

Hi Britney

I guess, I’ve always dated other people who have their own traumatic experiences. So no one has really judged me.

I’ve always I always dated people after being friends with them for a while first and been open about my PTSD. No, I’ve never taken a partner to my individual therapy. I hear that some people do if they have something that they want to discuss.

Is there a reason that you are asking these questions? Do you have any concerns about these things in your own life? ❤️