Rohag - I was in therapy for years. I no longer see it as a help to me, personally. After so many years, it gets to be just hearing the same things over again. A therapist did point out to me that I was investing a lot of emotional energy in people I did not really trust. I think of that often. I think I finally figured out what it is that I have to do. #1) Cut those "users" loose, or give way less of myself to them. #2) Go out and get involved in things that attract people who share some values with me. Once I was involved in a church charitable society. I met one of the nicest people there. She invited me to Thanksgiving dinner at her house, knowing I was new in town. I declined because I had a previous engagement, which was just spending the day with my alcoholic live-in boyfriend. I should have left him alone and gone to her house. Too late now. That was a lot of years ago. I'm sorry to hear you say you've "withdrawn from life." You seem too nice not to be involved with friends.

Hankster - Thank you. I kind of always assume I'm intruding, unless I get specifically told that I am welcome. We've read each others posts for some time now, and for you to think well of me helps me believe in myself a little more. Yes, so much goes back to growing up in the families we had. Mine treated me okay, but used to convey the message that the world outside of the family was not to be trusted. "Let's not get involved with the neighbors." was - like - the motto on our family crest. So I didn't learn how to get involved in a healthy way. My parents kind of had the same problem that I have. Their solution was to isolate. I wanted to be different, and I sure am. I need to find that happy medium.

Optimize - You set a good example. I need to set a goal to do something physical today. It's nice weather for bike riding. Don't know if I'll make it out the door, or not.

George - I will be less reluctant. It feels good to hear that others are here for me. It feels very good. This thread helped me so much yesterday. Today I need to start helping myself.