Point well made, SM, however, I find it difficult to feel completely safe when I read any post - not just the ones that are marked as possible triggers, because I can never really know what will set me off or when.

I truly understand that most, if not all of us, feel as though "we are under the horse's hooves," as you so aptly put it.

But I also realize that I am choosing to read the posts I do and must accept, at least, some responsibility for what may occur within my own psyche when doing so.

Believe me, I do see the "other side," much, much more than you may realize, but I absolutely refuse to stop trying to not to judge others, especially because of an illness that is sometimes, beyond one's control. And I refuse to condemn those that have illnesses that are deemed repugnant, for I believe that my illness presents much repulsion, not only to myself but to others as well.

This message was intended to remind us all that we are in the same boat - whether we are ill or not. It was not intended to deride anyone.

The whole world is suffering and we are all suffering together!

Altered State