Thank you for all of the support everyone. I thought I would have a lot of dissenters so I'm glad to know others feel this way too, it isn't just me being unappreciative.

On the other hand I did receive an unsolicited email today from a friend who is not nearby saying she was thinking of me. This one hit me in a very positive fashion... I think because it wasn't a response to contact from me and therefore didn't feel like a guilt reflex. Felt sincere and gave me a positive vibe. Also this person has been very generous with the hugs and letting me talk frankly about my feelings without offering a single bit of cliched advice at times when we are together.