Dex, I agree with mj on this she often relates well to others problems, etc.
I personally in the 3d world am social phobic with certain company, and I too have always been regarded as the "strong" one that both my brothers were devastated when I got so down and was suggested by my pdoc to voluntarily sign myself into the hospital.
I do not think I was putting on a facade in the years previous to that, I guess no one close to me either cared or was so blinded by their own heartaches/depression that they never considered I was suffering with a potentially fatal depression.
Maybe they were in denial? Maybe cause they lived far enough that they couldn't notice? I do not know the answer, but I have done something perhaps unhealthy, like staying a "loner", it can be lonely but at least I keep away from people, they can hurt you
Now animals, they are great and safe for me, the only time an animal has hurt me is when they passed away leaving me broken hearted . . . another reason I di not persue becoming a vet.
Oh forgive me for rambling you 2, I guess I'm just going bonkers not being in my home, down here in VA, ha!ha!
Whatever, I think Dex is a great guy and mj is a sweetie, and you can count on me never to hurt either one of you.

DE

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON