Hi Anita. Sorry I can’t always respond right away (I still work full time) but I was thinking about you. Thank you for your kind words and it makes me happy to know that you enjoy hearing from me. I’m so glad you had that moment of self love. That is wonderful!! There was a quote in the book about that very thing. I think it said; a moment of self compassion/love can change your entire day. A string of such days can change your life. I don’t think I’ve ever had a moment like that yet. Sometimes with rational thinking I remember some positive things I’ve done and think; maybe I’m not such a bad guy after all. But then it doesn’t take much to fall back into the negative thinking patterns again. I have another book that is about CBT and keeping mood logs. I haven’t tried that however.

I think the thing that bothers me the most is the regret that I let all those years go by before taking any action. I did a good job of masking my unhappiness and was very stubborn about looking for help. My life could have been much happier and productive. I can’t go back and change it, so I have to find a way to forgive myself and let it go. I think that is another thing that connects us. The fact that we both waited until middle age before seeking help.

Hope you are having a nice day Anita. Take care and talk to you soon.

Jim/Jamie