Hi turtle,

Wow- I could have written your entire post. It can be excruciating to think of opening up a discussion that I started and seeing the responses. I'm not sure what it is exactly- both shame and embarrassment are good bets, but I think for me a part of it is self-hatred. I can't stand the thought of "seeing" myself in others responses. It's like I can't bear to look at myself, even obliquely, because the hatred is too much. And then, of course, I too feel ashamed that I go so long without responding and I feel like there's nothing left to do but lay low.

I'm sorry you go through this too, but it is nice to know I'm not alone

Turtle,
I haven't felt that since almost every time I have i posted something i have felt understood and supported by everyone who posts. This is a great community where you are free to get it all out with people who get it and want to help any way they can, even if it just a hug.

I'm always scared to open my threads. It's hard, and sometimes I take a while... ((turtle)) I hope time makes it easier.

Turtle, I feel exactly the same. I open a discussion and then can't continue with the thread, then feel guilty because I think people must think I'm rude and that I don't appreciate the replies.

I'm not sure how to get past it and it really doesn't make any sense because when I do read all the replies I fell really supported.

Yes, every time I post. But I do it anyway.

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk to blossom" - Anais Nin



.

I am not even brave enough to start a thread in the first place, let alone check for replies!

I'm not brave enough to start a thread, although I want to. I hardly ever reply because I'm not brave enough for that either.

thank you for starting this post turtle and everyone who replied. i can relate too... i think for me its feeling overwhelmed and like i dont deserve all the nice replies...
i have found though that time and practice does help! i used to be a lot 'shyer' and the feeling returns if i've been away for a while, but also i have been reminded time and time again of the feeling of support on this forum!

i hope it gets easier for all of us!

puppet