Leaving/not leaving

So I will admit that after everything started a few weeks ago on the board I considered leaving too.  I took some time out one weekend and really evaluated everything.  I need the board, I need the support and I need the friends.  Because of my work/life schedule I am unable to make it to my local support groups.  This is where I get my support, totally.  Also this is where I feel I make a difference.  I am helping others with their life and journey.  I can't leave, I would fall apart.  We here on the VA Board have something special.  I have looked at other forums/boards and just haven't seen the love and support that we have here.  We all contribute so many different things here.  Yes we have been struggling lately because of some things that have been going on behind the scenes, no most of us don't know the whole story.  It is terrible that feelings were hurt and things have been said.  These things happen in all aspects of life.  Last night at my job I found out that I have been the point of some nasty gossip that is so completely untrue it is sort of funny.  It hurt me deeply to realize that someone else has the need to do that to me.  I started to defend myself and make a big deal of it but then realized that it wasn't worth it.  I know the truth and that is all that is important.  We all have to make decisons on what is best for us and fight for what we think is right..   For those that are leaving or stepping back, I understand that you have to do what is best for you and I respect that.  I will sorely miss you and the things that you contribute to my life.  There are private messages, emails, etc. available and you can still be part of this, privately if you want to and if you think it will work for your life.  For those that are staying, I understand you have to do what is best for you and I respect that.  I look forward to your continued contributions to my life. I love you guys.

Courtney , Very well said . I think at some point in our lives we all fall victim to this type of behavior . And it so saddens me when controversy happens ... drama .. etc ... and I have at a time gotten caught up in it ... trying to defend certain causes ... and such .. but in my heart .. I know that this board has always offered me more support than I can get anywhere .  I do belong to other message boards , and do love them as well . I just wish that the VA board could get back to what it truly is meant for . Look at all the newly pre-ops we have .. do they really need to hear all this .. when we could be helping them .. our energy is being waisted on what I deem highschool madness .  I hope this stops today . And you for one Courtney have so much to give .. and I am glad you are staying .. and for those that think they have to leave .. that is your decision as well .. but look what you could be missing ... you may have missed a chance to help or encourage someone .  Let's get over all of this .. use the board for what it is intended for . If you have a problem with someone .. PM them .. but not on the message board.  Take care ...  Tink .. Who is not leaving ...

Hey Court, I'm glad you're sticking around. I think all this coming and going is getting quite annoying actually. I love my girls here. I also respect their decisions to do as they please.  Bottom line for me is that I came/come to OH to learn and research. I made a decision that could be life or death to me and I have to take it seriously. The fact that I made some friends and acquaintances on top of that is gravy. No matter what is happening, I plan to stay because I need to be able to have this source of knowledge. I just do my best to sift through the POO. Just like I tell my girls (I coach volleyball) not everyone is going to like each other but you do have to respect each other.  I guess its easier for some than others. I do have a 12 Step Support Group that gives me the tools to deal with all of this alot easier. Easy isn't a good work to use. Simple is better. Most things are really easy.  I'll always be here, for those that "leave" or not, my PM's are always open to you. The locals, you all know how to find me too. I may not always post, especially on topics such as these because sometimes I don't think my 2 cents is needed, but I'm always checking on you guys! To the newbies, try not to fall into the drama. It's really not necessary. As a good friend pointed out, this is a family to most of us and familys do argue and fight. But in the end, they are still family. This too shall pass.

Well I haven't had a chance to be on the boards much lately, I've been in and out the hospital for dehydration. I also got a stomach virus, then I got an infection in my colon. Any how enough about me. I'm not sure what's been going on around the OH boards, ( and if it's negative, I dont care to know) but I do know that there are a few people on here that I always look forward to reading about and you're definitely one of them. I hope everything is resolved or you have found a sense of contentment for your own mind sake. In my opinion you are a very positive and motivating person and I very much appreciate it. I also appreciate all of your kind remarks from time to time. Take care and don't allow anyone to take what is rightfully yours. Your Peace, Joy, Success and Happiness is  all yours and no one can steal that away from you. Inner Beauty is a gift that you can share and give to those who will appreciate it. and those who don't wasn't worthy of your presence to begin with. I will continue to wish you the best! Stay a Motivating OH Diva!!! Tiawna J.

Can't say I have ever thought of myself as a Diva but I like it.  Girl sounds like you have been through a lot lately.  I will be praying for recovery for you. 

Tiawna Sound like you have been through a real rough time. I'm hoping you are feeling better.  I'm seeing Dr. Mann for 3 week post op visit (not here for week 4)  big hugs to you Jen