To all of my newly found Diabetic acquaintances:
As I am taking my walk this morning I am thinking about my experience here since joining this group just a few days ago, composing in my head what I might say to you.
The first surprise for me is that there is such a friendly atmosphere created by the members here and on reflection, I must say that did come as a pleasant surprise. And I was wondering why that is, why do complete strangers take the trouble to say “welcome” why do some of them say “I will be your friend”?
Even if I never hear from them again, which is perfectly understandable (although I hope I will), in taking the trouble to have extended that simple gesture to a newcomer I think it is telling me that “I am not alone” – that’s the way I’m taking it anyway. And I appreciate that.
After spending my last 20 years as a diabetic in a world of my own I did not realize how lonely I am (as a diabetic I mean, I do have a wonderful close family life but others cannot understand so I don’t share much more than I have to). When I applied to join this community I answered the question about why I wanted to join by saying that “I just want to learn of the concerns of my fellow diabetics.”
So, a sincere thanks to those who have acknowledged me, wherever you are, “Thank you, and best wishes in your endeavors, diabetic and otherwise.
Jim R.
PS: Now how am I going to post this so that it will reach everyone I’ve heard from?
I may have to send the same message to everyone separately but that’s OK.