Your conversation thread with Trip was great. The fears are a difficult thing to conquer and you have some good goals set forth to help you with that.
Meredith hit the nail on the head when she said that when they pull us closer with the imaginary thread it makes it more difficult to detach.
I think as caring a person as you are and as insightful it must be difficult that in his time of need MW isn't using his best resource...YOU! It frustrates me about MW, I can only imagine how you feel. That's just a hunch.
Think of the TMJ you are avoiding by giving up gum (CBH says as her jaw practically cracks in half).
BTW Officer Jerkwad will be in your neck of the woods 10/10-10/16 so get your skis ready sister. You'll be on a DB stakeout