Posted by Susan J on June 18, 2004, at 13:04:25
In reply to failure, posted by ghost on June 18, 2004, at 12:05:31
I'm seconding and thirding that -- YOU ARE NOT A FAILURE!!!
One thing depression/mental illness does is pretty much take us off the *traditional* career path/marriage path/whatever. It's no longer a straight line there. It usually takes longer.
But that really *is* OK. It's tough for you right now. That doesn't mean you are a failure. It means you've been given a much harder task to deal with than a lot of people. And I think you are doing it with a lot of grace. :-)
I hate being depressed, too. I sometimes feel like I've lost a lot of my life to it. But then I try and force myself to realize this time isn't a waste. We are learning far more about ourselves and humanity than most people do. When we do get ourselves back on solid footing, we will be far better off for it.
You can achieve ANYTHING in this life you want to. It may never come as easily to you as it does to some others. But that really does make it sweeter. It took me 9 years to get my bachelors degree, and I know there are people out there who think I'm lazy or a moron or worse. But they didn't know about my parents kicking me out, or my depression, or abusive boyfriend, or whatever. I'm very grateful for my B.A.
And you! You are into chemistry/science stuff? Sheesh! You've got my undying admiration right there, because I can't conceptualize anything scientific. My brain just doesn't go there.
poster:Susan J
thread:357813
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20040611/msgs/357841.html