I received so many answers and like-minded feeling responses to this thread, both publically and privately, that I am greatly encouraged. The main thing I learned right now is that God never wants us to shoulder things alone. I have been feeling this way for so long about church, and though I've talked it over with my mom and some others at the church, I never really felt like they got it completely, you know? Here, having finally opened up, setting aside all my desire to appear well put together and stronger than I am, I find that I am greatly encouraged. I have received sound advice and helpful encouragement and have taken a moment to examine these feelings under the light of new revelations. I am so very grateful for all of your input.
I look forward to staying in contact with you all regarding this and hope to hear from all of you, too, as things change and move in our lives, no matter how far apart we are.
I have to say that lately I have really seen the value of this site. I think when I first signed on, I was very pious and self-assured and so I saw myself as the answer gal back in February of 2012. I took a break of many months from this site and only recently returned and I have to say that this has definitely been a richer time, knowing that I am flawed and far from having all the answers.
There are also members on here that I actually look forward to seeing having responded to threads I'm a part of or having started threads. I literally light up when I see some member names pop up. That is such a wonderful feeling.
Thanks again.
Words fail to express my gratitude for the support I received upon being open about my feelings regarding church.