Gratefulness.org is full of caring people.  We listen as we can, and hope you know that you are being heard.  We are not, however, a professional counseling service, and there are limits to the support we can provide.  If you need further help, you can call the counseling center at the college or university nearest you and ask for referrals to services in your area. 
 
Occasionally we hear from people so distressed that they are thinking of ending their lives.  The National Hopeline Network provides access to trained telephone counselors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Please call 1-800-784-2433.

Dear Margaret,
I think I know what you mean by this post, but then I'm not depressed. I'm a bit worried that it comes over as this:
 
"We can't help you, so don't come here."
 
I'm absolutely sure that isn't what you are saying, but one person has already emailed me saying she thought that's what it meant.
 
Best wishes, Jude

Love is the only way

Dear Margaret, thank you for this post pinned to the top. There have been times when I have received an email and did not know what was available in the particular area where someone lived. It was so often stressed to us and we are still reminded of it in Peer Review that as Spiritual Directors, we need to be able to recognize the difference between giving spiritual support/companioning and when an individual needs professional counseling assistance. We are consistently reminded that if possible, support/companioning should continue while the individual is getting professional help and that we are doing that individual a real disservice if we do not suggest it or if we allow it to become an either or situation. Thank you for giving a very positive reference point.

Shalom(May you be at peace in Body, Mind,& Spirit.)
I'menuff

Dear Margaret,
 
I understand completely. I come here at times when I
feel bad and need some advice.Of course I never
take it as professional advice. However I thank people
for their kind words. I light candles often,too.
 
When I really need to talk to someone,I turn
to my real friends. They understand me more
because they know me online and offline.
 
Anyways,Even though I'm a stranger,I consider
 a few folks here as online friends,only.

''Before You Judge Someone By Their Manners,
Behavior ,Disabilities, Way Of Life,Or Appearence.
Imagine Yourself In Their Position First...

Hello Admin
 
Sorry now but I  not sure where to pop this post.
 
I have run out of candles -could I just ask for a few extra for  now.I respect you have to give a quoter
 
but there is a group I really need to light up morning and night  .
 
Sandra

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love~and be loved in return♥♥  


 

Dear Sandra,
 
It doesn't hurt to ask, and you might send a PM to Margaret or Pat.
When these limits were set, there was quite a bit of discussion about them on our part. They were necessary because of spamming. The abuse on the part of some unfortunately leads to restriictions that seem to punish the innocent!
Usually, if you wait for a while, some old candles will extinguish and you'll have space for more. And you still can light candles, but they won't show! Your intention really is what counts!
 
You might want to re-read the third thread from the top which explains the limits.
 
Much love,
Edda

Peace and joy!

Thank you dearest Edda for replying
 
I will send a pm to Margaret in the hope she may take pity on me
 
how very sad to think that there is even abuse in candle lighting.
 
Thanks again Edda xx

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love~and be loved in return♥♥