[Dr_Jeckyl_00]

[ QUOTE ]
I have a very cool 13 year old son and a beautiful 7 yr old daughter who very much were looking forward to Santa arriving, with his usual overstuffed bag of goodies. I felt alone, helpless, inept, and pretty much worthless during much of this time.

[/ QUOTE ]

This is the most important part of LesJ's post, IMO. This feeling is much worse than anything anyone can imagine in their life.

Les, It is clear you have your priorities in order (family first!)

Recently Bluefeet left 2p2 and poker to get his life in order. But he too had his priorities right, his 2 girls.

It is certainly sad to read about other's misfurtune.

BUT it is really nice to read in their "sad" stories, how much they love their children and that they have not lost sight of what is most important.

There are a few new dads (Stregachess, Kevstreet, Irieguy... and a few others) who are now realizing the joy your kids bring you, and nothing beats that feeling, nothing.

So no matter how difficult life gets, you'll get through it all when you realize what is really important in life, your family.