Anxiety and Depression Support

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What a way to close out the month

Hi all! Brian here. I'm feeling very depressed today. Nope, it doesn't have to do with the cancer battle I'm in. I'm depressed and angry over what is happening in the world right now. I'm not going to get on my soapbox and spew venom or blame small groups of people for the ills of society. We all have an unalienable right to our opinions and how we feel about topics we are concerned about. However, that does not gives us the right to treat others horribly if they happen to disagree with us. I am terrified by what I've seen in the news over the last few weeks...no, make that months. I am aghast and horrified by the apparent glee and relish that some delight in in mocking or denigrating others who simply wish to voice their concerns.

I am extremely depressed and feel like there's nothing I can do to help make this world a kinder, gentler and safer place to live. My faith in humanity has been shaken deeply. Is all the kindness and caring I try to show towards my fellow man and woman a complete waste of time?

I am upset and depressed, and I don't know where to turn.

Brian

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bridder01

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5 years ago

I’m so sorry for how you feel Brian. I totally get it..

Sending gentle hugs your way...

I hope you can find some peace within you

🌷🌷🌷🌷

Stilltrying_5 years ago

I don't watch the news. Things are bad enough already.

Agora15 years ago

Brian, you are not alone in losing faith with humanity. Caring and kindness is never a waste of time because of all the beautiful people in this world. Just as we have to be positive when having our anxious thoughts, we so have to be open to the fact that there are more good than evil people. One person alone cannot change the world but all of us together, in unison, may be able to make changes one step at a time. I have to believe in that. And so must you. Getting depressed and angry only hurts yourself. Right now you need to place your energy and strength into taking care of you.

If only the world was as kind as the people on this forum. Wait a minute, we are from all over the world. We are seeing the cream of the crop, the best of humanity.

susanjo6135 years ago

You can’t control what others do or how they think. All you can do is treat others the way you would like to be treated. I get why “still trying” doesn’t watch the news....it’s soooo depressing. I like to think that for every negative, there is a positive. It’s too bad that typically only the negative is concentrated on in the media.

jkl55005 years ago

There is no reason for you to be depressed over the disgusting actions of a certain group of people. The problem is that there is a certain political orientation (and political party) that feels that they have the absolute truth on every subject under the sun, and if you disagree with them, you should be attacked. Whatever happens to you as a result is OK, because you deserve it. There is no room for discussion, for a civil exchange of ideas, which is one of the foundations of our republic. It's them or nothing. It's straight out of Karl Marx's playbook. Indeed, this party almost had a Socialist as their nominee for President in 2016!

You have no control over any of this. I suggest you limit your exposure to the news. The only thing you have control over is your own behavior. Let others fight these senseless battles.

fauxartist in reply to jkl55005 years ago

exactly how do you figure this.....so.... this investigation for having an election fixed by the russians is fake news? and the man baby is such an honest guy that's being picked on for no reason....just trying to understand what your saying...is it Hilary that your calling a socialist......and what is Putin....just a nice guy....maybe just a little misunderstood...and this 'Bromance' is all just a hoax? Just trying to read between the lines here.

jkl5500 in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

And where is the proof for your claim of Russian collusion? Or do you even need any?

Bernie Sanders is a Socialist, not a Democrat.

The fact is only one party in my country is causing all this trouble. The truth may hurt, but it's still the truth. Nobody from my party threatened to blow up the White House or kidnap Obama's kids because he won the election. It's the left, and only the left, that does these things.

fauxartist in reply to jkl55005 years ago

Excuse me....but did you not just hear the prezzz giving Maxine Waters a veiled threat that she better watch it...now....'Your' party’s threatening to 'Lynch' her.

by the way...I never mentioned collusion....I said 'Bromance'....did you not know that the prezz has been in business with Russian Oligarch buddies that answer to Putin since his failed condo venture and failed casino venture ....they bailed him out and the condos are now called 'Little Moscow' in Florida..

amanda_alcazar in reply to jkl55005 years ago

It is funny and repulsive that you say these kind of things when there is a fascist sitting in the White House, who would be just laughable if not because he is a sinister and dangerous psychopath ruining the lives of many people, inside and outside the USA. A moron with much more power than he can handle, as it becomes more and more obvious every day.

You might hate Bernie Sanders, because of probably a bunch of prejudices you didn't even bother to review, but one thing is clear: he wouldn't be treating human beings as if they were scum, just as your beloved president is doing.

You need to get yourself a bit of humanity and compassion, urgently.

fauxartist in reply to amanda_alcazar5 years ago

truth eventually comes out....we'll see hopefully....

Vonnah in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Hey fauxartist listen to this:

In I quote "there are very good people on both sides"

"Look at that face"

"Their bringing crime, drugs, their rapists"

His freaking son met with the russians and asked for dirt on a political opponent. All things done in the dark shall come to light. Its sad that so many people are native and brainwashed. I guess people loved Nixon too.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

yeah....and the meeting was at trump towers no less....it was supposed to be about adoptions...yeah and I'm so naive to believe that this sociopath gives a crap about adoptions for kids....his dad's locking kids up in a closed down waldmart....

Vonnah in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Yeah well imma stop before this all gets carried away. I'm sure it already has. Poor post will probably get closed down for more comments soon. Its the rules but politics this day in age is very angry and a lot of emotions go into it. Some people are scared to speak their minds. But yeah i get you.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

understand...but couldn't stand by and let one point of view be stated in the post when there is right and there is wrong, at least both sides of a point are being made....I agree with Brian....it is a sad state of affairs.... the bigger problem though is ignoring it, that won't fix what's broken....people need to agree to disagree and at least find a middle ground again to start building the country back up for everyone, not just a few percent of the people.....

Vonnah in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Exactly. America is more divided than it has ever been. A lot of hard fought-for things are being undone every minute. Anyone should see that other countries don't take us seriously now like they once used to.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

I've seen over six decades of what has evolved and people have to come back together...some way .....Somehow....forget about politics and just be compassionate human beings to one another again...care again....I know we can, I see it every day here on this site.

Vonnah in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Yeah i hope for peace. Just people who do what's right.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

the sad thing is.....by the country being so divided....it's what our enemy's wanted, and we gave it to them on a silver platter.....no one spoke up and said no.....if we don't like things the way they are....turning the other way and trying to ignore it won't change anything....being aware of what's going on and voting is the only thing that will change things. We are great people....remember that document..

'We the people'.....not just a select entitled few....

gogogirl in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Thank you!!!! And you're right- being silent- almost seems like apathy or "agreement." Very important to stay involved. Every time I hear that someone doesn't vote, I cringe. Women did not have the right to vote for many many decades.

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

'The devil you know is better than the one you don't know too'....if you read about Mike Pence....he wants all women’s rights removed along with no more affirmative action, or rights for any minority group...good ole' boys' back in charge of the nation should strike fear into the hearts of a lot of people who could and should vote.

gogogirl in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Bernie Sanders is known as a democratic socialist. I love me my Bernie! Bernie has been for equal rights, the environment, education, etc. for over fifty years, and also marched with Dr. King. Is THIS the person you consider bad? I do not get this. The 99% have been silenced in the USA> , and the billionaires got tax breaks. There are many , many good people out there such as people on this forum. Glad you brought up these points!

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

Funny how much more scared of Hilary the far right was than Bernie....and Putin hated Hilary for pulling back support and publically calling on human rights violations on Putin...so guess what.....the mudslinging from the trumped up stupid emails ensued....and by the way....I've been on wiki leaks and read them....there isn't a friggin thing there!!!! How did all this hype come about!!...are they really that gullible on the right? Just cause someone says it’s so doesn't mean it is. Or is it true Putin just bought the vote? ...we really need to double check what's being said before we believe anyone in future running for office.

gerg5 years ago

There seems to be a massive industry that is dedicated to making you feel the way that you feel now. They spew opinion, cause drama, and present it all as facts. For every opinion that they present, as fact, I can find a perspective that proves them entirely wrong. Behind every expert there is an agenda.

It isn’t easy, but I work to connect to reality. Nature is real, and really helpful. I also study history, it shows me that the drama is nothing new. The urgency presented is fake, the outcomes presented are purely emotion.

Acceptance is key in my world, my emotional investment will not contribute to the worlds problems.

jkl5500 in reply to gerg5 years ago

I agree with you completely. The MSM is not in the news business. They're in the agenda business. It's the American version of Pravda.

gogogirl in reply to jkl55005 years ago

They are in the money business. Pravda?????? We barely here about our combat soldiers and vets anymore.

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

Just ask the next vet you see how well it's going for them upon return as far as health care and housing, and mental health care, or education.....a lot have dropped the ball helping these men and women.

fauxartist in reply to gerg5 years ago

Not sure I get what is being said here , just to be clear... the current president seems to be more of a dictator and acts like a 14 yr. old girl tweeting childish insults to anyone who disagrees with him. How does this instil security with the nation or the world when he acts like a spoiled child rather than the supposed leader of the free world? He personally Ordered children to be detained after tearing them away from their parents by force and locked up. I cannot understand how any sane and decent human being would think this is right.

jkl5500 in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

I don't wish to get into politics here, only to mention that the President is merely enforcing laws that were on the books long before he took office. Obama did exactly the same thing, and the press never made a peep. In fact, they praised the child detention facilities back then as being clean and decent. I'm sure your BBC never bothered to mention any of this, as it would ruin their agenda of Trump as the Devil.

Vonnah in reply to jkl55005 years ago

Yes press never made a peep. You wanna know why? Simple. Obama did his job and didn't go on twitter acting like a fool. Bush, Reagan, Clinton never spoke and acted like they are the king of the world and talk down to people. Pass presidents did their job. No talking nonsense to stir up more people in the press. The current president brings a lot of crap on himself. The people working in the white house don't got enough sense to tell him to stop? Oh right because they can't and if they do speak against him or disagree they get fired. It's all pathetic. The world is laughing at us can't people see that??????

gerg in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

See, this is exactly what my post was about. I mentioned no one and people jump into drama mode. People are infectious with opinion that means nothing. I keep my house in order as my part of contributing to society.

Vonnah in reply to gerg5 years ago

Yeah ok.

Vonnah in reply to gerg5 years ago

Everyone has freedom of speech though. That's why people state their opinions.

gerg in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

Freedom of speech should come with responsibility, a concept that is sadly forgotten. Entitlement and victim hood have replaced responsibility.

Vonnah in reply to gerg5 years ago

And your right. But people who are passionate in what they believe in aren't gonna hold their tongues. I know what everyone believes in is different. I promise you i usually don't speak my mind either but i do think i shouldn't even replied. Anyways i see why politics isn't allowed here. Politics now is a touchy subject and people are quick to tell their point of view. I did but I'm not ashamed. I assume others aren't either. It's just the world we live in now. Somethings are important and need to be talked about but when the time and place is right. All i know is the majority of the population in the world doesn't like what's going on and how things are being done and said. I am depressed too about how America is going backwards. It is what it is, but people stand against hate and protest peacefully.

bridder01 in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

"With great power, comes great responsibility" Think I heard that in a superhero movie or something lol

fauxartist in reply to bridder015 years ago

I'm sorry Brian this turned into politics, I do appologise.....but when a few put up their one sided viewpoint....and then defend it by saying, it was veiled enough to not be politics, and any defence is the others are the problem...well....then the other viewpoint should have a right to put up the truth. And the division shown here is exactly what the problem with the world is today....no one can seem to agree to disagree and act like grownups and take care of the people who make up these nations that are part of the world and not just a few privileged who use politics to get rich off the poor.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

well said Vonnah....

Vonnah in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Yeah thanks i stand up for what's right.

gogogirl in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

Hey Vonnah,

Just got off the telephone with our congressional reps office and the Senator's as well . Supreme court voted against labor last week.

gogogirl in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

Right on Vonnah! I sometimes call or write to our reps in congress to let them know what issues are important. Trump is said to have at least fifty six law suits against him pending . He was brought to court over the machinations about Trump "University" and ending up settling with people for quite a bit of money. Years ago, he was known to not pay people who worked for him. Obama did not have to defend himself like that. Right on Vonnah. Not only do you have intelligent opinions , but your goal is to help people to help themselves better , and to have a better quality of life!

Vonnah in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

He did nothing but con those poor people outta their money. Hate to say it but 'probably' was minorities working for him and he knew what he was doing too😒

gogogirl in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

Yes, Vonnah- that is correct as well as people who emigrated here. Thank you for being such a concerned citizen.

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

Trump has been bankrupt a few times, leaving hundreds holding the bag...he started being big buddies with the Russians way back in the eighties....he's played the 'Long Con' on the game of laundering money for the Russians etc. for decades. He has not paid money to many, many people along the way....I have read about this 'Fake' billionaire' way back when he begged Forbes 400 to put him on their list....he has lied, cheated, and manipulated everyone and anyone...and only had less than a million in actual cash the whole time he's professed to be worth billions....He's a con artist...and the world bought it. And we will be paying for all the damage he's left behind for many years after someone gets this sociopath out of office.

gogogirl in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Me neither! Not only that- he brags about his riches, and gives tax breaks to billionaires. He pulled out of the climate agreement, and has even started a tariff "war" with Canada and other allies , and companies here ( USA) have laid off a whole lot of people. farmers are hurting, etc.

Vonnah in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

Thanks i am very passionate about this and so are others. People are literally worrying about their children growing up in all this chaos. More hate crimes are being committed and people are bolder than ever with their disgusting racism. The white house officially has it's own reality tv show........😑👎 nobody is being held accountable. How many lies has been told by the staff trying to dismiss the truth? Too many to count and its sickening. Some people praise him like he's a god. Ugh give me a break. He is also obviously racially insensitive.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

No one is being held accountable is right....his minions are falling like dead flies but the one who is causing all the chaos still sits in his highchair, and tweets all night watching Fox news...two of his newest Hench men are 'FROM Fox news for god's sake'....yes...to Trump....this 'IS' his own reality show.....and there are many who voted for him just to see what he would do, just for that reason....to see what chaos he would bring to the Whitehouse....well..Mission accomplished....jokes on you at 4.00 gas, no affordable housing and no healthcare...how light is your wallet lately?...see how funny that is now. Time to change the channel.

fauxartist5 years ago

hey Brian....I know it’s hard to take on board what's going on, it's shocking and sad...and understandabley depressing....but one thing I will tell you that makes me feel a bit better about this world right now are people like you buddy...yeah....really....you make me smile, your kind and generous....and you are an example of what is right with the world....and if more people like you got together and made sure they knew who they were voting for, watched what is really going on and not what someone tells you is going on...things would change for the better.

I read more and more comments lately how hopeless people feel, and how they just stopped watching the news because it's so depressing...sure it is.. But things can be changed,...One voice and one vote at a time. The world is being moulded into a global dictatorship and it's only going to get worse if we all ignore it and bury our heads in the sand. Don't be depressed....be active. Remember the saying...'United we stand...divided we fall'....sometimes just doing what is right is all it takes to get the ball rolling.

hypercat545 years ago

Hi Brian kindness and consideration is never wasted. We can't do anything about the world in general but we can make our little corner of it better by our behaviour. That's all we can do and know that karma will get the horrible people one day.

Even on here we get this from time to time as I experienced around a month ago so we aren't even safe here. But remember we don't hear about all the good people quietly living their lives with dignity and respect do we. Take care Brian. x

jkl55005 years ago

I see the BBC is repeating the same nonsense that is spewed in America, and you have swallowed it whole. I guess it sounds good to you, so you believe it. I am only responding with the facts.

fauxartist in reply to jkl55005 years ago

I read 8-10 papers a day....and I'd say maybe you need to get your facts straight, as you obviously are a man with your own agenda....so be it, I don't have to care what you think, until democracy is no longer, you still have the freedom to say what you want, as do I....what I do care about, is how the current state of affairs effects the regular working family who are now paying 4.00 a gallon for gas, can't afford their mortgage or rent, cant' afford health ins. for their family, or how women’s and minority rights are being slowly dismantled, or how no one can find a decent job with benefits any more...

Vonnah in reply to jkl55005 years ago

But can't you see if it wasn't for reporters then the citizens wouldn't know the lies, corruption, local and global concerns, environmental issues, crimes, statistics, health advances, new technology, and most importantly the truth. These reporters work hard any many risk their lives reporting war and weather disasters. They show people what's "really" going on. If they plagiarize or lie about reporting, they will get caught and fired. Then it will be hard for them to get other jobs in journalism and do the same thing again.

fauxartist in reply to Vonnah5 years ago

Have you ever watched a news brief with Sarah Huckabe.....she says nothing....answers nothing when questioned....and is nothing more than a talking bobble head...

Dontpanicjule5 years ago

Bri, you hang tough. Do you live in the U. S.? If you do, I can certainly understand your feelings. If you don’t live here, you can’t imagine the anxiety many of us feel. I know this is not a political forum, but there is a level of nastiness and in civility that has beleaguered this country, and many of us are embarrassed and quite frankly scared. My therapist told me that many of her clients are feeling lost and hopeless because of rhe General feelings of nastiness now. Hang tough, Bri. You are such a positive influence on so many people and such an inspiration to the rest of us. Don’t let the turkeys get you down! Julie

gerg in reply to Dontpanicjule5 years ago

I blame it all on Jerry Springer!

bridder01 in reply to gerg5 years ago

I hear ya gerg lol. Did you hear that he got cancelled? lol We can't use that as an excuse anymore lol

5 years ago

Hi!

I just can’t stand to watch the news anymore! I used to enjoy talking politics, and now I hate it. I’m growing less and less interested in TV as it is. The President does not act presidential, doesn’t believe in global warming, and seems to have a fake marriage. That’s enough for me to be turned off and that’s just on the surface stuff. Hopefully I can get geared up for the next election!

gogogirl in reply to 5 years ago

Remember it is much more than about Trump. There are local and state issues which probably affect you more on a daily basis. It is much more than about voting. It's about staying involved. These types depend on others to hang their heads in despair and just "resist". It's how the economy was tanked, tax breaks go to billionaires, and the environment is decimated etc. Volunteering ( even if you cannot do it regularly) can bring out the best, and adds to strength in numbers. Politics is all about money, and these days even more so because the monied interests do not bother to be ashamed. Personally, I do volunteer when I can, because it helps the community. When community is decimated and people only care about themselves or themselves and people they know the sense of community goes away. That is when authoritarianism kicks in which is what we are seeing. You might like a book written by journalist Sebastian Junger called Tribe. He also wrote The Perfect Storm which was later turned into a movie. He lives in MA>

5 years ago

All we can do is fill the world with kindness

gerg5 years ago

I go through each day knowing that everything in my world is exactly as it is meant to be. It does not serve me to be discontent. I don’t know the future, nor do I pretend to. I have no reason to think otherwise and I am okay with that.

gogogirl in reply to gerg5 years ago

Remember this is much bigger than "I"- it is about "we"- not just individual rights.

gerg in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

I control only myself.

gogogirl in reply to gerg5 years ago

Well, good for you- but you are still a part of a community. Apathy is akin to not being involved.

gerg in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

Taking care of myself is more of a contribution to my community than most are willing to make. If I don’t take care of my responsibilities, I am of no value to those around me. I produce while others bark like dogs for their meals.

gogogirl in reply to gerg5 years ago

Bark like dogs for their meals?????? When you say produce- do you grow your own food? ( We do and give some to food bank). That is what I am talking about- of course take care of yourself- but I am also talking about giving back as well. Isn't this also what this site is about too? Ah well- to each his or her own. Have a good day.

gerg in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

I don't disagree with you, I just view these things from a rational perspective.

Why do you really give that food to the food bank? It's the same reason I do, but I accept that doing for others is actually serving me.

Epicurus founded a school of philosophy that convened at his home and garden in Athens and that dedicated itself to attaining happiness through the exercise of reason and the application of rational principles.He concluded that;

"The behavior of infants confirms that human beings instinctively pursue pleasure and that all of their actions, including those that may be construed as being either virtuous or altruistic, are ultimately aimed at obtaining pleasure for themselves."

My hope is that others gain something from my posting on this site, but I know that I gain something from posting on this site. I remove control of my satisfaction from others and retain that control for myself. Retaining control provides for my emotional stability, a skill I had to learn to manage my anxiety disorder.

gogogirl in reply to gerg5 years ago

As I said- to each his or her own

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

wow....bark like dogs....that's a new low

Florida19595 years ago

Brian, the world is a peculiar place and the energy is awful, but look after yourself, be kind, send out good thoughts and it will come back, remember a journey of a 1000 miles starts with a single step, by showing kindness to one person is a fantasticyhingbto do. X

Crissypreso5 years ago

Hi Brian sorry you feel bad i understand how you feel.I too have anxiety times through what happens to my brain and hope it fades away one day my heart goes out to you yesterday was my bad day today I hope is my good day.Please take it easy love

Chris x xxx

Imakook5 years ago

Hi all my peeps...and I DO mean all of ya!

First of all, Bri-brat😆 (once there were 3 great friends & 1 was named Brian. The 2 gals lovingly called him Bri-brat & it was a goofy term of endearment. If you're offended or hate it, I'll quit it...for this, only your opinion matters). I also want you to know that you're going to be ok. Additionally, if you're pissed & spittin' nails.... well, these are real feelings & I for one am glad you're getting them out. Now you can choose to let them go. They are negative & you can't afford that right now. Gerg is right in that acceptance is the next step 'cuz you can't change "what is".

So, much to my chagrin, I've accepted that he's my president. Maybe not my choice, but I voted, which means I did my part. Is there more I can do? I think so.

Actually, everyone still has the inalienable right to their own opinions.

I think I've quit wondering WTF happened to sanity....this, coming from a crazy old lady formally diagnosed with & treated for, seven mental conditions. I am working very hard on whittling them down.🙃

I'm not working right now and I've watched a couple of notable people that I admire put their career & life's routine on hold because there is work to be done & each effort will contribute SOMETHING to change.

I believe that with all my heart because I've seen it happening, which gets me pretty fired🔥up!

So even if my own little corner of the world (family/friends) are fairly safe & doing good, I've decided to quit resting on my laurels & find a place where I can help with a campaign or something. To help a candidate to get elected who is honest & will listen. Someone who hasn't been acting like a horny-toad and who sees & accepts others for who they are, embracing their talents. Maybe someone like Amy Klobuchar. Smart, honest & experienced. The president doesn't have the right experience & frankly, has not a clue what he's doing. I had hoped he would at least be surrounded by a good cabinet, but due to his inexperience, it has become a revolving door.

So, this is my honest opinion, which I'm entitled to. This is such a loooong post! But, although I don't agree with you, jkl5500, I can tell you're passionate about your beliefs...I do respect that and, like anyone else, you're entitled to them.

Brian...just get well & have faith that there is a well-oiled machine at work.

Peace & HUGS!!!

Colleen

gogogirl in reply to Imakook5 years ago

Right on! Me too.

bridder015 years ago

Hi all! Well, I never thought I would unleash a firestorm in our little community lol I sincerely apologize to all of you for stirring up this particular hornet's nest. Yet, at the same time, to deny my feelings and not to vent would be putting my own mental health at risk. I have starting a new thread that shares my own personal opinions on why I am upset and terrified. If you're interested, here's the link:

healthunlocked.com/anxiety-...

I don't want any of you to be upset or get angry over this. We each have our own opinions and worldview based on our experiences in life. Above all, we must respect each other's rights to their beliefs, even if we are diametrically opposed to them. I would encourage those who have had sharp disagreements in this thread to try to extend an olive branch to each other and try to work out your differences. It's ok to disagree. Every topic is like a coin. It has two sides to it. In this day when we are more likely to shout and scream and swear at each other over a minor disagreement, we must temper our passion with respect and understanding. We can disagree on things and not enflame tempers at the same time.

Now, with that said, I am in a better mood today, primarily because I was able to vent my frustration and concern in a polite and respectful manner (at least, I hope I was polite). I care about each and every one of you. You all mean a great deal to me and you have helped me with my anxiety and depression in more ways than I can count. So, thank you for being here for me when I needed you.

Now, I'm going to pull out my old baseball cards, get ready to listen to some afternoon baseball (even though it's only 7 AM as I write this lol), and just chill out for the rest of the day lol If you're a baseball fan, I encourage you to do the same If you're not, or if you live outside the USA, then here's a chance to try something new! Head over to mlb.com to see what's happening in the big leagues, or to milb.com if you want root for your hometown minor league team (so many teams and leagues to choose from. Oy vey! lol) If you're simply not interested, then that's ok Just find something you enjoy and immerse yourself in it today. After all, it is Sunday and Sundays are a time to relax!

Your friend,

Brian

Imakook in reply to bridder015 years ago

So well said, my friend😙. Now THAT'S the whole olive TREE, or is it olive bush? Grove? Vine?...I guess I'll go Google it now. As the hubby would say, "Quit guessing!"

Peace OUT!!!

bridder01 in reply to Imakook5 years ago

Whatever makes you happy my friend. Whatever makes you happy

Imakook in reply to bridder015 years ago

It changes by the second. ADHD made me instantly forget to google it by putting squirrels & shiny things in my path. I'm SO over it! Except...

Per Google, it's olive tree (hence "branch"...duh!), which grows in a grove. Now it makes sense, but check out what else I found...

Using this more specific definition all fruits are considered vegetables but not all vegetables are fruit. Olives, plums, tomatoes, artichokes and cucumbers are fruit. Lettuce, potatoes, celery and beets are not reproductive parts of the plant developed from flowers so are considered vegetables.

WHOA...fun facts! 😊

gogogirl in reply to bridder015 years ago

Brian,

Your post about this shows once again what a caring and wonderful person you are. I hope that your treatments are going as well and even better than expected. This shows that you care about what happens even more than what happens in your neighborhood etc. We all need more people like that. I personally am glad that you vented about this in this post. The "firestorm" ( love that word) shows that an awful lot of this feel the same way, but we go on our way the best that we can. Perhaps who knows with this insanity ( excuse the word) more and more people will wake up and get involved.

fauxartist in reply to bridder015 years ago

It's all good Brian....it's healthy to debate reasonably and rationally ....a lot was said that usually goes unsaid for too long, and needed to be said...no one person is right or wrong to have their beliefs, that's democracy....as I had said...we used to all play pretty well together....and agreed to disagree....both parties, and the others, would give and take until some middle ground was met that all could reasonably live with....what's scary is there is no middle ground anymore....for now....at least people are talking...and that's what makes change....and that's what will hopefully bring balance, some sanity, and peace back into play with the policy makers...it's not 'I' the people....it's 'We' the people.

5 years ago

You my dear a such a kind, caring & gentle man....I wish for you peace!!! Have yourself a beautiful day!!! All the best for you!!! XXX

dee_bells5 years ago

Politics is the last thing I thought I would see on this forum.

A lot of people feel like you do. Avoid the news for a couple days.

Good luck.

Cb_235 years ago

I have noticed that I can’t even tolerate the news. I make a point to avoid it because I am feeling like you. I know there are kind wonderful people out in the world. I worry about the world we are leaving for our children.

gogogirl5 years ago

Brian,

This is so important that you have posted this, man. This goes way beyond what someone feels personally , but I applaud you courage to post this. I agree with you as do many others in this world. It seems like up is down and just the opposite. When the economy tanked due to Wall Street machinations, and the banksters were not even put on trial, I knew we were in for a really bumpy ride from there on out. Last week C Span actually showed the president in a speech bragging about how rich he is. Now, more than ever we need to band together , and for those who can get involved with community, join others in putting a voice out there, and sending a message to local, state and federal reps ( congress) that this is not who we are as a people. Yesterday, I received a survey from the dem party asking about priorities. Where do we start? I put on the survey that basically every need was a priority. When a president brags about drilling in ANWR, when there is global warming, something is really really perverted. Of course it goes much deeper than that- it's a moral issue, and it has been bubbling up through greed for a long time. I think personally people are angry and sometimes they show it mightily the wrong way.

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

I admire you very much gogogirl...you’re not hiding your head in the sand, your very informed and not just another ‘talking head’, you actually take action and do things to try and make a difference....your eyes are wide open....they said Auschwitz would never happen again....but things happen when nobody is looking.....history repeats itself....

gogogirl in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

You're too kind faux- I have learned a lot from you, and also from getting a proverbial "kick in the pants" so to speak in some ways as I got older! At any rate- you are so right- that things happen when no one is looking - then people are "surprised" because they did not say anything when it was time to do so.

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

women's rights, .....dangerously on the way out. Human rights....on the way out. Saving the environment....Koch brothers and big oil and coal...animal rights ...going and will be gone. So if you don't like brown water, orange sky's, and miss the sound of birds singing in the morning....vote....don't react...act.

gogogirl in reply to fauxartist5 years ago

Yes- we have the numbers as the Doors sang about all the way back in the sixties! We have the numbers, but they have the money and then some. Like you- I say never give up, and never stop voting. Too many people say" What good is that" or my favorite- "What's in it for ME?" Did they forget that many people did not have the right to vote in the USA until the 1960s?

fauxartist in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

they used to bus people of color at sunset out of the rich white neighborhoods in LA....back in the 60's....and inter-racial marriages were illegal. Gays were put into mental hospitals.....and teachers are still getting fired so they 'won't turn their students gay' from having a gay teacher. Yeah....it's the 'me' generation post 'gen Z'....but sadly people will read all this, Or Not, and shrug their shoulders and just turn the page and do nothing....

Shutterbug655 years ago

Civility, respect and kindness has been replaced by hatred, insults and violence. Your right Brian, I stay away from the news.

gogogirl in reply to Shutterbug655 years ago

Remember you can stay away from the news, but you still can get involved with important issues such as the environment, education etc.

LittleMsSunshine5 years ago

I understand completely Brian. Please don't let this get you down. People will do and be who they are, just stay true to you and live one moment at a time. Be happy and kind to you.

Hollick5 years ago

Bridder,

I feel very much the same, however this is beyond our control. We must try to change the way we think in order to ada6 , but more importantly embrace change as it happens, it's inevitable...only then will we find true inner peace. I hope it makes sense, it does to me and it works. Thanks, take care.

bridder01 in reply to Hollick5 years ago

It does, Hollick. I'm trying to stay positive. That's all I can do. 😀

Hollick5 years ago

*adapt*

bridder015 years ago

OK people, time to shut this post down. lol. Thank you everyone for weighing in. I also do apologize for getting this ball rolling. But I am glad that I got to vent and get it out of my system. Now, let's try to help each other with lots of positive vibes!

Your friend,

Brian ☺

bridder015 years ago

All right ladies & gents, let's keep things civil, shall we? Respect the opinions of others, even if you don't agree with them. I thought I shut this post down anyway. lol

SA1924615 years ago

I’m so very sorry Brian..I completely understand how you feel..We live in a very frightening, hateful world. I wish I knew the answer. But, please don’t stop being a kind-hearted soul..we human beings need Love, Care and support and like you my faith in humanity wavers..but I myself, will not give up on the human race as long as I have love and empathy in my heart.

Lyn8425 years ago

You've had tons of replies. I don't really have to. Yes, this world is in a horrible state. Not just America! All we can do is what we feel is right. I choose to care about my fellow man. There is so much disregard and disrespect going on. Politically, and otherwise. Parents don't parent anymore, children have too much freedom to say And do what they want. Evil abounds. The only thing that gives me, as a Christian, is knowing that the Bible teaches us the world will be in utter chaos before Jesus comes back again. I gather you may not have Faith in a relationship with God and know what the Bible teaches. I am just sharing what gives me peace so I can sleep at night. I very seldom listen to the news anymore. Its only a downer. Please don't give up being kind and caring. We need more like that. Remember the Serenity prayer. God Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the Wisdom to know the difference. Take care of yourself please and just be YOU. I thank you that you care.

bridder01 in reply to Lyn8425 years ago

Thank you for your kind words, Lyn. I'm not a man of any particular faith. Religion is one of those so-called 'thorny' topic because every single person has a different view in that respect. I respect everyone's religious beliefs. The only time I don't is if someone attempts to force their beliefs on me. I tend to take a more philosophical view on life. I try to the right thing as much as I can (doesn't always happen, but I do try). I always try to look at things from all possible angles so I can better understand where people are coming from on a topic of discussion and I try not to make hasty or rash decisions before I have all the facts. I also try not to force my beliefs or opinions on others. If someone asks me my opinion on something, I'm happy to give it, so long as the other person knows that it is only MY opinion and that I'm sharing it because I was asked. There are so many things that divide us in this world. I try to be a tiny link to bring people together, regardless of opinions or worldviews. We can all learn by talking to one another, even on touchy subjects. We may not always agree on things, or not even like what others say, but there has to be respect....always. As far as I'm concerned, so long as you're not hurting anybody, you can believe what you like. On that, I promise I won't argue

Your friend,

Brian

bridder015 years ago

OK folks, show's over! Break it up! I'll have no nasties in my thread! lol

gogogirl5 years ago

Hello Brian,

Happy post fourth of July. Just wanted to reach out across the miles and see how your day is going.

bridder01 in reply to gogogirl5 years ago

Day's going good so far, Gogo I'm off to see the plastic surgeon in a little bit (4 PM appointment, but 1 1/2 hours to get there, so I've got to leave a little after 2 EDT). Just had some fun battles in World of Warships. So I'm happy Oh, Happy belated July 4th to you too

gogogirl in reply to bridder015 years ago

Brian,

Look at you- dealing and adapting to your medical conditions, and still reporting being happy. What a rock you are. Good luck with your appointment, and please continue to be here.

Brittney075 years ago

No it's not a waste of time one kind person in the world changes more than you think keep being you and love everyone . I do not watch the news at all anymore bc it always upsets me that there is way more bad than good now a days but I keep on being the nice lovable person in hopes to change even just one soul. I hope your dad gets better Brian

Brittney075 years ago

I ment to put day not dad I'm sorry. We can blame auto correct 😯