[Dan in Pasadena]

Markus,
How did I not see this thread before now? I agree with almost everything everyone has posted. Classically, I like Sammy's response to this thread the most so far. In response to something nice you posted about me in another thread I responded that I am a bit of a mess sometimes.

When I was going through my divorce some years ago, I was a complete mess. Truth be told, nearly suicidal in a few brief moments. Typically male, I thought "I can FIX this, if I can understand this I can MAKE it work". So, I read what I had NEVER read before...some "self help" books. Overall and with years of hindsight? What a crock of schit!

But two made a big impact on me. Primarily, "Happiness is a Serious Problem - A Human Nature Repair Manual" by Dennis Prager. Prager is a radio host here and I disagree with a LOT of his positions on the radio, but I think this book is an absolute classic. It was a Godsend for me! Drop me a PM with your address and I will happily mail you one of two copies I own.

The other was "The Road Less Travelled" by M. Scott Peck, M.D. The opening line of that book got me and never let go, "Life Is difficult. This is a great truth. One of the greatest truths. It is a great truth because once we truly see this truth, we transcend it. Once we truly know that life is difficult - once we truly understand and accept it - then life is no longer difficult. Because once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters." You've got to read it all to understand the author's point of view, but it has helped me in some very tough times.

Send me your address and I'll overnight it to you tomorrow. Take care, my "friend-I-have-never-met...yet". Remember, "Life is Good, but it isn't Fair". Best, Dan