Thank you so much for your encouragement and validation.

I am so sorry to hear someone criticized you in a situation you are already uncomfortable in, and in front of others. That was wrong of that person imo.

I hope you find the right job for you, too.

What you said resonated so much for me. I agree that checking out jobs is okay, especially if I can afford to. I also agree that I'd love to find something ultimately, that I love or like to do with my time for 8 hours s day, 5-6 days a week. That's a really good way of putting it and I hadn't thought of it that way before. I am currently exploring careers. I'm taking a class at my local community college this winter / spring. And I may need to explore more than just this one program, because I have more than one interest. I'm going to take a medical records 101 class. But I also think I'd be good at their sign language program as well as being a direct support professional. I just don't want to overwhelm myself - both socially and with giving myself too much to do / decide. Gathering information is good. I will be gathering information over time.

Thanks again.