Ford Madox Ford: "The Good Soldier." First line:

[DemoTex]

THIS IS THE SADDEST STORY I have ever heard.

But I have a sadder tale than Ford Madox Ford. I signed a contract to sell my beloved mountain place today. First, I feel like I betrayed my dear dog Nick-Nick. He needs this place. Next, I betrayed myself. I could not find an alternative to selling the DogStar Lodge. My pension (US Airways) was terminated.

I am in a deep deep depression, from which I will have a hard time coming out. I feel a sucking spiral on my remaining years. I'm almost 58. In a couple of months, I'll be 65. I now understand exactly how the system works.

Mac

[havocmom]

1. Sorry to hear about your impending loss, Mac

Afraid our plans to live a safe, somewhat carefree retirement will end up a shipwreck on the rocks of greedy corporations too. but we gotta keep plodding along, if only to be a thorn in their sides.

Stay strong.

hm

[DemoTex]

2. Thanks dear HM.

Thanks!

Mac

[havocmom]

3. Moving down into town?

That was a very pretty house you posted a picture of.

[DemoTex]

4. It is a great house. I'll deal with my depressions there!

I will never be the same. I loved this place.

[havocmom]

5. We are never the same. Keep that in mind

Little gem that got me through what I was sure I would never survive: a card with these words:

Change in its self is not what hurts us. But reflexive resistance to change will get us big time.

I know the disappointment is great, but hang in there. Have learned that I really don't know what is in store and reality has actually been pretty kind.