a kind word of encouragement would be appreciated

My demolition derby life! I need a break! Really, just a kind word of encouragement would be appreciated.
Everyday normal (whatever that is) life can be difficult enough with its ups and downs. But I have had the pleasure of many days when the balance of highs and lows rested somewhere between the mania-induced stress high and the just-before-the-backhoe-covers-the-casket lows of depression. I truly do prefer the median.
Just like a car in a demolition derby, I am so banged and damaged: my engine cover is up and crumpled, making clear forward vision nearly impossible; the trunk lid is accordion-folded from efforts to extricate myself from errors in judgment; my fenders hang by a bolt threads having been repeatedly dented and dinged by drivers wanting to win the race; my tires are punctured and going flat. Still moving, but I’m running out of gas. The field is so dusty, I cannot see which way to turn and fear every turn will be the wrong one.
The remaining baggage from my family of origin is a burden still too heavy to carry, though I make continuous efforts to unpack it and leave it behind me. The daily emotional rollercoaster of my failed 24 year marriage creates a self-induced tug-of-war in which I am engaged as I am trying to determine the best course of action for myself and my 9 year old daughter. The dread of becoming a single parent again at 63 fills me with doubt and fear. Recently disabled and unable to be financially independent my skin crawls with anxiety at the thought of counting on my soon-to-be selfish and stingy ex-husband. And the now-verified discovery of previously held suspicions regarding the neglect and abuse of my older, also-disabled sister by her own daughter has me in an additional dilemma. I don’t eat right, don’t get enough sleep and am completely without emotional support. I am over-stressed, suffering in the midst of an extended and severe depressive period with no relief in near sight. I am overwhelmed in the midst of my own confusion of my problems, yet am compelled to extend a helping hand to my sister. We have no one else but each other.
I just need a week alone to think things through, make some decisions for myself to help myself and my daughter so I’ll be able to offer responsible assistance to my sister. Thanks for letting me tell you. Please send thoughtful, good wishes our way whether or not you respond in writing to this post.

http://forums.psychcentral.com/4262681-post105.html

- vital

I'm sorry you're having such a tough time.
I wish I could give you an amazing piece of advice which would make things slightly better, but I can't.
But, I will pray for you and think of you.

Your eloquent words have moved me to message you. I am so sorry to hear that your life is in turmoil at the moment. Although you may not think it now, there is light at the end of the tunnel. I am new to these forums but I have found that talking things through via this site has helped me with the healing process regarding my painful issues . You need to try and concentrate on healing your mind and wellbeing. You sound like a caring kind person and that is a positive thing. Life deals us bad cards sometimes and learning to cope wth these issues makes us stronger. I have found that writing down all the negative thoughts I have had towards my husband has helped me deal with the pain. I didn't send them to him. I screwed them up and threw them in the bin which I found has given me a little bit of closure. It hasn't made the pain go away, but has let me grieve for my loss, albeit on paper. I hope you find peace in your life soon. Kind regards Lolo x

Very good imagery here. You have a genuine touch for writing

I have genuine sympathy. Later in life major changes are multiplied (lost job at 45, not found new long term one 5 years on) and genuine responsibilities to boot; not making it easier

Although, sometimes, responsibilities, however trepidatious we may be in our ability to handle them or how onerous (raising a child is less the latter) is what gives us the righteous anger to keep going

Thank you for your thoughtful words and good wishes. Your kind replies touched my heart and uplifted me.

There is a song that I like called "broken and beautiful". You may want to youtube it.

Yes, it sucks to be hurting so much inside, but there has to be a reason for it....