Personal Sabbatical Required

[Sac_mec (imported)]

Today is a very sad day for me. Those of you who read the Jokes thread dedicated to us British, will have seen that I took unecessary offence to something I should have ignored; but the post appeared with the UK on a maximum security alert of an imminent attack on us. I was feeling very depressed both by days and days of constant deluges of rain and thunderstorms

and also by having to see so many depressing and hateful thoughts expressed on this site. I have been worn down by the Political and Jokes threads.

I need some time away, a "sabbatical" as some other members have already noted. I promise to drop by, but my energy and strength to add 'moderate and thoughtful posts' (as noted by one member, here) has vanished and eluded me now. There is just too much to counter.

I have a hopeful and strong belief that the Administrators will be firm and I thank them and send a hug to Uncle Flo for being nice on a silly thread I wrote on Cycling and Lycra and for his intervention in the Jokes thread. I'll give that bear a wapping hug! Meanwhile, I must take a break for my own need. I know I have so many friends here but I'm just feeling down and friendless now. Time for a rest, but not without sending love to thosewho generate it and those who know me and care. I'll still pop in randomly

but I must recharge my batteries right now. Everyone, take care.

[tugon (imported)]

Take good care of yourself and please come back when you are able. I recently became at odds in a situation on the EA and I understand how it feels. Even the closest of families have their issues. You will be missed and I will be glad upon your return.

[Uncle Flo (imported)]

Thank you for the kind words. I have no doubt you'll be all right in time . --FLO--

[Blaise (imported)]

Please return soon. I enjoy your posts.

[strassenbahn (imported)]

Today is a very sad day for me. Those of you who read the Jokes thread dedicated to us British, will have seen that I took unecessary offence to something I should have ignored; but the post appeared with the UK on a maximum security alert of an imminent attack on us. I was feeling very depressed both by days and days of constant deluges of rain and thunderstorms

and also by having to see so many depressing and hateful thoughts expressed on this site. I have been worn down by the Political and Jokes threads.

I need some time away, a "sabbatical" as some other members have already noted. I promise to drop by, but my energy and strength to add 'moderate and thoughtful posts' (as noted by one member, here) has vanished and eluded me now. There is just too much to counter.

I have a hopeful and strong belief that the Administrators will be firm and I thank them and send a hug to Uncle Flo for being nice on a silly thread I wrote on Cycling and Lycra and for his intervention in the Jokes thread. I'll give that bear a wapping hug! Meanwhile, I must take a break for my own need. I know I have so many friends here but I'm just feeling down and friendless now. Time for a rest, but not without sending love to thosewho generate it and those who know me and care. I'll still pop in randomly

but I must recharge my batteries right now. Everyone, take care.

As someone who has never met a member of the EA face to face but who regards EA as a second home, I'd like to suggest that you consider following the practice that I have found useful and simply not read posts on the political or jokes threads. I am not suggesting these threads be discontinued -- there are fellow members who clearly really enjoy them -- but speaking personally I found that differences of opinion in this polarized world we belong to (like it or not) were separating me from people with whom I otherwise felt kinship in terms of a shared interest (at various levels -- reality, fantasy) in the subject of voluntary emasculation. Maybe bearing this in mind you may be tempted to come back on line sooner -- I hope so!

[Fixet (imported)]

I understand your decision, and I support it. I hope to see you soon here again.

Big hug from me.

[Robby (imported)]

Sac_mec,

What can I say?... You are going through a time in your life where rest and relaxation is necessary. Staying away from the boards is one of way of getting that rest you need.

Many of us here need time away from E.A. for our own health. I took time off and a lot of other members did the same. You may have read two of our volunteer staff are taking time off as well. This life, your life, all at odds. I'll bet you didn't think the loss of Testosterone would do this to you.

Take care,

[Bagoas (imported)]

I think I know how you feel, Sac Mec. I am reminded of a quotation from Thomas Jefferson (after his presidency) "I do not take a single newspaper nor see one above once a month, and feel myself infinitely the happier for it."

Sometimes I read the Jokes and have even contributed to them, but I NEVER read the Politics section. Except for religion, nothing is more divisive than politics. Frankly, I'm not sure that politics belongs in this forum at all .

I don't believe anyone intended to hurt your feelings. Even our least tactful members really mean no harm. I have never received a really hateful comment from anyone in this forum. (I can't say that for another forum of which I used to be a member which was definitely NOT for the thin-skinned.)

What you are feeling is not intrinsically different from "burnout" which many professional people, especially teachers, have experienced. It was one of several factors which led to my retirement at 57. (State employees can retire with full pension at 55.)

A change of scenery would probably be very helpful, especially if you can share the experience with someone of whom you are fond. Good luck and God bless you.

Martin

[Sac_mec (imported)]

Hi everyone and many thanks for your kind words and also your understanding too. I have taken on board everyone's comments and I will do all I can to

"lighten up a little". Sadly, Huevon I am unable to visit Praha now for personal reasons, but I loved my first trip there a couple of years back. It is a great city

to enjoy. Robby, I didn't realise that a low level of T could be so draining on so many levels but I do realise that I am very sensitive right now. Whilst I will drop by and make the ocassional contribution even, I do need a real rest.

Thank you all for your kindness; it's welcoming to see