Naga: You mentioned her self defeating side. This suggests a lack of self respect and does explain part of why she is or was on the defensive (pre-emptive strike?); a basic and deeply ingrained distrust assuaged only by her habit of verbal "rough trade".

If I wasn't insane myself I'd become a psychologist or something, after all what greater mystery than the heart of darkness?

Naga, you speak to the core of her issue so well...

But never underestimate the value of your skill as one who has walked, because those of us that have weighed in the balance our own situations in the 'heart of darkness' - (so ignorantly labelled as 'insanity') - are the ones best equipped to walk along side others in their own trials in the pit... pointing them to the way out.

With the greatest regard and respect for your Gnowing

Hazel

You are very kind.
As much as I love working with people, the proximity itself can be a liability for this type.

But every once in a while, some kind soul finds the mountain where we hide. They see where we go for water. It means a lot to connect with others, even if "hello" is little more than a smoke signal on the horizon.

Hug