I could have used those same five "I hate's" although in a different order. I think with me, though, it all came down to insecurity - the other things sort of grew out of that.

In my case, it was almost getting divorced that FORCED me to look at myself and decide to change. It was a sort of "fuck it, if I'm starting over, I'm not going to start over as this insecure shithead."

I still have my days, definitely, but by and large I have been able to improve my self-image a fair amount, and I like to think that's made all the difference in the world in all sorts of areas.

I find it interesting that you consider yourself both judgmental and open-minded. Personally, I would add another one to the list of things you like. That through this blog, you inspire a helluva lot of people, and even if it was only just a few, or even one lowly reader, those few feel better after reading it. It shows that even though everything isn't all fun and giggles in life, you can still get through it if you just wait for a new day.

Too preachy? Nah.

Enghorn - I find that while I am open minded about some things, the judgmental part comes from seeing people do something that I don't exactly consider kosher, and it's not something I would do. Example: Females who go all psychotic on their boyfriends when they break up with them. When I hear about something like that, the first thought in my head is, "God, what an idiot." That's what I mean when I say judgmental.