I, 100% agree with you, most people do only listen just so they can speak. You know, I heard somewhere, I don't remember if it was in therapy or through my own research, but apparently isn't so much our topic of suicide, death or depression that make people uncomfortable, more so coming face to face with their own mortality. Plainly, it makes them uncomfortable to think about, so they feel the need to change the subject or shut down your thoughts/feelings.
Oh, wouldn't that be nice.
A truly safe space to open up... I've only ever found that in therapy (Group or individual). It definitely needs to happen more often than not. Though, that's why I'm glad I found this place; save for a few people here & there, I don't feel judged for my opinions. I feel open to talk about whatever, though, the ones that are more "judgemental" are in my opinion, lacking more so in interpersonal communication skills. There are ways to make a point without being rude, some just don't know how or their pain prevents them from empathizing. I've been curt with a few people when I was mad at something else. *Shrugs* Grain of salt.
Oh no, I'm not one to do that. I'd sooner take it to the grave. I've been bullied far too often in my life, childhood, teens, adulthood... people can be real pricks when they want to be. *sigh* So I try to use the random things I know for good, instead of "evil."
I feel you, having real, genuine connections with others is by far the greatest "drug". Anything other than face to face conversation makes me incredibly anxious bc I can't see what they're doing (stems from trauma). What does that feel like, popularity? How does it benefit you? (I mean no ill will by these questions, I am genuinely curious) It's unfortunate that you guys cannot meet up, though at least you can remain in contact.
Yeah? That makes a lot of sense. Having real human connection makes life seem a lot less... heavy. Oh, well that's an annoying circumstance to find yourself in- like frienship limbo.
Curious, what does putting 100% in look like to you?
I've since stopped buying gifts on a large scale. I used to buy them spontaneously for anyone in my circle, but now I buy the occasional thing here & there, but I've been burned so many times that I don't trust anyone even close friends (ties in with my diagnosis). So the gift buying tends to fall during fleeting moments of impulsive elation. (Oops). They enjoy them from what I understand, I just feel like I don't belong anywhere most days... so it's few & far between now.