Thank you, @runaway-psyche, for sharing your inspiring journey to peace. I like what you said about ruminating unhealthily. That's a hidden talent of mine! I get stuck, and it spirals from there.  What can I act on? That's a better question, and hopefully I can ask that question on a day that I am not immobilized in melancholia. I am happy to hear you have been able to overcome your depression. I do agree that it is possible. Accepting reality, accepting that we can't change or fix others, or even that it's not always our fault when people are in foul moods (a hard one for me with two self-absorbed parents) is vital for a chance at metal peace.