After the epic bout of holiday-induced depression (and with all that come with it, especially loneliness) I had this year (one of my worst ever), I made it a new year's resolution to get out and meet people. Usually I have these episodes but when I feel better, I go back into old patterns. But something has happened this year that's different: I'm sick of being lonely. Now I know that resolutions often fail, and I'm trying to be realistic about what I can accomplish. To that end, I have or will attend several gatherings of like-minded people this month, both for discussions (about our common afflictions) and for fun. It may not be much, but the simple act of getting out of the house, meeting new people and trying something new helps build confidence to hopefully help me overcome my loneliness, depression, shyness, etc. For me these are huge steps in the right direction. It will take a bit of work over a long period of time, but if I can do it, you all can too.