Ok, time to put my 2 cents worth in.........and I apologize in advance if anyone gets mad at me.

I came here and stayed because I found a core of people that genuinely cared about me, that sometimes I made smile, and that always made me feel better. This "core" group was always here, others came and went, some stayed - but the main core was always here.

I thought I became one of the main group, and I was so happy to be accepted and welcomed. It was our own family that made newcomers feel good and cared about.

Then all of a sudden, because of a misunderstanding (or whatever it was) in CC, two of the main group left. Since that time, others have begun bickering, feelings have been hurt, misunderstandings have arisen among the stronghold of this forum.

Why???????? Isn't the purpose here to help each other, to feel that we can all talk freely without fear of reprisal or mocking? We all know how depression and pain can warp our thinking and our feelings. We always forgave each other if things hurt us, moved on, and STAYED FRIENDS.

Something has invaded this forum and the main core is cracking........people are getting so hurt by others and leaving/taking time out from here. This used to be a place of healing, support and caring. Why can't we just realize that sometimes words are spoken out of pain and when an apology is offered, accept it?

I don't understand why this has happened. I am very saddened by it and wish I could turn the clock back. Everyone here I care a great deal about, but esp. the core group that welcomed me so warmly to this place that I consider a second home.

I am asking to PLEASE, PLEASE, try to get back to where we once were. To be the support group that cares so much about each other and for others. It never used to be so difficult, esp because we all knew and understood each other's pain.

Don't let this happen. No one else leave, please. Even if you feel that you have no need of support from anyone, stay and help others then. You all have so much to offer new members - the gift of having been where they are now. It is never time to move on, when others can benefit from your knowledge and concern.

::::::::::stepping off of soap box:::::::::::::::::::::

Mary Alice

This was written out of caring and concern for everyone here and for this forum. I'm sorry if I offended anyone.