[Woodcarver] Alan Jones

[cynda douglas]

Reddog, If I needed a friend, and who doesn't, I'd sure pick you.  Your 
response to Alan's plight is incredible. Yes, Alan is in the depth of 
despair right now. Perhaps any of us in his position would be. Depression 
is not something that can just be willed better. And depression can be 
fatal. It takes good help and wise medication to deal with it. He certainly 
sounds on the brink.
I know what being confined, in pain, and severe depression is. Depression 
is very often a physical problem in the brain. Will has nothing to do with 
it. He may not have good help with it, or a friend like Reddog. Carving 
could be a life opener to him.

Clive, I understand how you feel,  the letter hit me that way at first. Yet 
it took real courage for Alan to tell it like it is and ask for something 
he desperately needs, a reason to keep
on living. It could be that something to feel good about, and bring a 
little pride in accomplishment could do this. We don't know what kind of 
help he is getting where he lives. "There, but for the grace of God, there 
goes I." (or something like that.)

Alan, hang in there. Don't be afraid to ask for what you need.  Be sure to 
tell your doctor about your severe depression, as he may be able to help. 
If he/she's not listening to you, find another one who will. the way you 
are feeling now, may not be forever, even if it feels that way.
My favorite to get me thru a bad day, is "and this, too, shall pass." It 
always does. We come out each time a stronger person.  The disability may 
not pass, but the way you feel about it may.  I do know, when we need them 
the most, people shy away from a depressed person. When people are around 
you, "act as if" you are more up. It's hard, but sometimes acting like 
something, causes it to happen. Don't bring up your problems, as they know 
them, but ask about them, what they are doing etc. That can draw others 
like a magnet. We all have to do that at times. And you know what? When you 
do, you'll even find yourself feeling better. :-) Keep coming here. There 
are good people here. And you are welcome.

Sorry folks, for taking so much space.
HUGS all around! A huge group hug!
Cynda  
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