Dear, I just wanted to make sure that you knew how appreciated you are on this board, and in chat. I know you are going through a rough spot right now, and I want you to know that we are all here to help and support you.
You’ve been noticably absent from the board, and the computer in general, well for me anyway. You are missed, even when you are gone for just a short time.
Grace us with your presense soon, Dear. 
Second. And third, from quietgirl.
Your presence always makes a thread better, Anthracite.
You guys, she’ll never see this if it falls to the second page! Come on people!
Anth,
We have had discussions before, and I hope you know how much I admire your presence on the board and in chat. You are, smart, funny, witty and valuable. Whatever it is that has you down, ride with it and know you have lots of people who value you.
I miss seeing your posts. I was wondering where you’ve been.
Best wishes from a newbie,
–Kris
Thank you Haley. Maybe I’ll be able to finally chat tonight. And thank you too for your thoughts, andygirl, quietgirl, Punoqllads, weirddave, Tabithina.
These last three days have been the worst in 17 years. And they’re going to go further downhill very soon. I really don’t know what is going to happen, or when. But it’s going to be bad.
I guess I knew in my heart the end of the line was due to come. I’ve realized this over the last year or so, and I tried to prepare for it - I just never thought it would be so bad when it finally got here. I can only remember having such pain and feelings one time before - you know the one.
It hasn’t hit me all yet, since I honestly think I’m in sort of a state of shock. Almost like I’m sleepwalking through the grief. Strange I can type about it so rationally, and strange I can still make it to work each day rather than driving into a bridge pillar. Although I am getting the panic attacks more and more frequently. I actually had to cancel a conference with a client today because I felt like I couldn’t breathe all of a sudden. Oh well…
I guess after it’s all over things will be somewhat peaceful for both of us. I especially hope it is for her - she’s a very good person, and I only wish the best for her. I honestly and sincerely mean that with my whole heart. I fear instead it may be bitter, nasty, and violent. I don’t know. I really don’t know.
This thread can sink and die now (just like…no, no self-pity allowed. I do that far too frequently here, and it makes me look weak, stupid, and foolish, and like I’m just looking for people to post “support” messages. Well, I’m not this time. Just responding to Haley’s OP. Wow, this is a long aside…)
There’s nothing more for me to say here.
Love ya, kid. If you need to vent you have my email.
I just wanted to say that I appreciate you and miss you, Anthracite.
I sent you an email once - send me one if you need someone to listen. I am available and interested in you. You will come through this okay - I have faith in you.
I’m sorry to hear you’re feeling awfull.
I can only say,
I wish you the best
and I hope life will turn to the best for you soon.
You deserv it.
{{{{{{{{{{Kram}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Oh, Una, I am so sorry that you are going through this. If you need anyone to talk with, please feel free to e-mail me. You know I think the world of you and you are such a great person. Don’t worry about a little self-pity–sometimes it’s just what you need.
Anthracite, I am sorry to learn you are going through hard times.
When life gets hard I have always found great inspiration in a poem called Words for Julia. It was written in Spanish by the poet for his young daughter. I have translated it and I hope it conveys the meaning if not the beauty of the words.
You know you have friends here and we wish you happiness.
That’s beautiful sailor!
{{{{{Anthracite/Una}}}}}
Hey, you wonderful woman! I’ve really missed your rapier wit. Don’t hesitate to lean on us. We’re here for you. (one of the few times I know that presuming for the rest of the boards is without opposition!) Just know that you’ve got major hugs.
::sniff::
Chris