Hi Hope! I posted a long response to you on Friday, and then lost it...then my computer crashed, and I didnt get it redone...but I see you've gotten some really great insights that I couldnt have added one single thing to.
One thing that really got my attention though was your statement that you were taught that men will let you down and we must always take care of ourselves. I've been "pondering" such issues lately myself...although there is certainly truth and wisdom in that, I think a lot of us may have some how gotten sold a bill of goods in that area.
I found another website that addressed the issue of "being a doormat" in this situation, it helped me a lot. If I can find it again, I'll post the address here.
meanwhile, I don't remember if it's Molly or Tessa who posted about how important it is to keep in mind that no one else can live your life for you....That's so true, and so important to keep in mind. I think it's a disservice, actually, to push others to make choices for their lives based on our values (unless it's clearly a situation that's unhealthful, dangerous, abusive, etc.)...YOU have to live with your choices...that's why it's so critical to be the one who makes them.
I hope you had a good weekend...I vote with the others here who say "go to vegas and have fun"....and I'm waiting with Slowly to here what this weeks 180 will be.
