It would seem that no one needs to be reminded that this is a Mental Health Support site... but apparently some do.

Through reading postings in various forums, there are posts from people that are having a rough time yet feel guilty because they feel they don't have anything to contribute. That's okay! We've all been in that place. Some have been able to accept whatever support is out there, gotten out of our funk or bad time and been able to come back and give back some of what we've received. That, to me, is "Ebb and Flow".

Some feel that they've given their all either to a forum or to an individual then there is silence, or somthing happens to trigger. Suddenly, we're angry and afraid or angry and aggressive. Sometimes, bonds are formed, but with two individuals seeing that bond with two different perspectives. At those times, inveriably, someone gets their feelings hurt.

Much is said that the Acceptance level here is great. Be that as it may, some need to remember the differences in other people and respect that. Nothing is a one-way street. Some like to make it that way or think it is that way by nature, but that's not true... especially on a site like this. There has to be Ebb and Flow, give and take and above all, kindness and respect for the other person(s).

In that same Ebb and Flow, there are those who continually spread "love and affection." If only we could believe those kind words of understanding and keep some of them for ourselves. Accept what is given, be it kindness or constructive critisism, sit with it for a while and take whatever good there is and leave the rest... much like the waves of the ocean deposit on the shore what isn't the ocean's to begin with. Ebb and Flow.

And just like the ocean often reclaims it's territory, let's learn to keep for ourselves what we need to keep the most; Truth, Kindness, Honesty, Respect, Love. When you pay these forward, one must always keep enough for themselves. To repeat a well worn phrase, "Put the oxygen on yourself FIRST, then attend to those around you." If you don't have enough for yourself, how can you give others any help?

And above all, don't throw your pearls to the swine! Some will accept what you have to give and some will reject any goodness. That's where they happen to be in their journey. What we may have to offer may not be what they're looking for. Accept it without taking it personally. Yes, easier said than done... but still doable. Save your "pearls" for those that will accept them. Take care that your "pearls" are not misunderstood. Be clear and concise when you expose them to the light. Again, this is a Mental Health Support site. Not everyone has the same meaning to your words that you do!

Peace and Affection to everyone.