Hm... gallop I think you generally post good stuff but I think you should re-read the title of this thread. It's not "thekid55's advice column." It's just a place for him to post his thoughts and progress, he's allowed to reply to people's comments.
Personally, I think this thread is awesome. It's a great story illustrating that, no matter how down and out you feel, it's definitely possible to get YOU back.