Some people prefer the anonymity and others don't. It really is difficult to find someone you connect with in a place such as this and a lot of people may seem indifferent, but it does serve a purpose. I just joined last week and it was out of desperation for someone to talk to, and I guess I thought that if I threw enough little bits of myself out there that I'd have immediate relief from what was troubling me, but that wasn't the case. It did, however, open my eyes a little further in terms of what I need to do, while providing a place to talk about it and still vent if necessary. There is good that comes out a forum like this, because there are people that have been there and can empathize with what you've been through and offer advice, but the downside is that it's not very personal, you can't see the people you're talking to, and some things simply might not be seen before they're shuffled a few pages back.

But... I digress. This forum is a tool, really. I think most members probably don't come here simply to talk, but to gain insight to help themselves, as well. It sounds like you really need to talk, though.

I can empathize with you, too. A family where intelligence was a punchline, dreams that never came to fruition, several miserable failures... not to mention I've dropped out, as well. I'm sorry that nobody took the time to offer some kind words of encouragement to either of us. A lot of times, it really can make a difference.