Bummer...

I was looking at my friends' online photo album. They're living in Guam and have just returned there from their trips to New Zealand and Austarlia. They got to dive on the Great Barrier Reef three times. In NZ, they saw more beautiful sights. Guam has lovely places as well....

Don't get me wrong. I am VERY happy for them and don't begrudge their joy! My problem is that as I look at their photos, I am sad that I'll never get to go anywhere interesting. I haven't been able to leave my hometown since 1988. This fear is ingrained. And since that time, my mom has become fearful to travel as well! My fear seemed to rub off on her! UGH!!

Even to go across the bridge to the beach side of our town is something that makes me a little uneasy, much less going anywhere far.

I guess I'm feeling down about al the things I've missed out on because of my phobias. Oh well, I know that I'm better off than many because some can't even leave their houses.

jl

jl,

I understand exactly how you are feeling as I had always had the all American dream of how life would be my oyster when I retired. I would travel, have fun and no worries.........well it was just a dream.

Learning to put dreams aside was one of the hardest things I have ever done. Understanding, finally, that the world would not bend to my will. I was so naive, I had honestly believed it would. But I know better now, and I know our lives are all subject to the limitations of space and time, money and ability, imagination and opportunity. Sometimes the stars align and sometimes they don't. Some dreams change. Others die. And their loss can be just as devastating and palpable as the death of a loved one. So how do you get over the death of a loved one? The truth is, sometimes you don't. I think dreams are the same.

We mourn our losses but we have to keep moving forward and make our lives good for our own sake.

Gentle hugs to you my friend,

Kitt

Thanks Lyn and Kitt.
I knew you'd both be posting some of your kind wisdom! ;)
Yes, I really do know all of that...sometimes just need someone to ry with, so to speak.
Lyn,
I am sooooooooooooooooo very sad for you that your hearing is gone. I know you are not looking for pity or anything like, but just know that I care and wish I could make it right for you.
As I said before, I know there are many that have things worse than I do.
Kitt,
you just keep on being yourself. You're a lovely person always!
Love you both,
janet