Dearest Linda,

I understand. Been there, done that. Over and over again.

I've been to hell and back enough times that I have developed a little plan for myself. When I get down to where it's so dark and I'm so tired that I don't even CARE whether I get out or not I force myself to remember:

1.) I've been here before. (That one is easy)

2.) I've gotten out of here before. (OK, yeah, that's true, but I have no idea how I did it and I certainly can't do it now.)

3.) I have no idea how to get out of here (and, frankly, I don't care.)

4.) Repeat 1 & 2 until you hear them (don't repeat the parentheses part. That's just my smark aleck inner child talking).

5.) Then, repeat #3, and then think..."but, You do. So, YOU figure this out. YOU get me out of here."

6.) Say "Thanks," and then I take a nap.

7.) Wake up and then go do the next right thing.

8.) Rinse and repeat.

My spiritual philosophy is a la Marianne Williams, Course in Miracles, Buddhism, Druid, a loving energy/universe kind of thing. One thing I've always remembered was, "If you feel like you are struggling too much, if you're in fear, that means you are trying to do things yourself. Ask for help."

One step at a time.

Take care. Peace + Play, Cynthia