EV,

Your explanation here gives a whole new dimension to this issue for you.

So many of us with abuse issues from childhood seek out that repetitive abusive rejection again and again from friends, partners, spouses, therapists, etc.

I think instead of the statement "you can't make people care about you" why not instead focus on learning how to find the right kind of people?

I don't think it is hopeless or stupid at all. I think it is sad that you have gone through this pattern in your life. Now that you are aware you can begin to change it.

You can begin to seek out more available people that you won't have to 'do one more thing to make them care'. You'll learn within yourself what is that 'magic something' that appeals to others.

People who will like you for you.........not for the things you do for them..............but just for living and breathing as you! Imagine that?!

It will happen esthersvirtue. You're finding out huge discoveries along the way. Good job!