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I don't know how long this thread will stay open, or if it will stay in this forum, but I wanted to make it, anyway.  So do what you will with it, mods. 

I've been working on projects for an Internet Folklore class, and we've been discussing the purpose of online communities.  Of course, I've talked a lot about Furtopia and posted pictures of my fursona on different occasions (which is fun), but this week something hit hard.  We talked about about the function that a community has in being a place of support...

... while most of the furs that were here are now gone, back in January 2008, I posted about some huge difficulties I was going through regarding sexuality and religion.  It wasn't an easy time.  When I posted, though, I saw an outpouring of support from the furs here, telling me to keep going, keep pushing on.  And, most of all, to keep hoping.  Even if it wasn't said out-loud, all the posts spoke of hope.

I look at where I am now, and while I'm the same person, I'm much happier.  I didn't have many people IRL that would stand by my side, but this place -- this message board -- gave me a way to hold on.  I still have difficult days, but I'm able to smile even when there are clouds in the sky.

So, I wanted to give you all a big thanks -- whether you were there then or not.  The sense of community here has always been strong for me, and I hope everyone feels that. 

Cheers.

[NOT]

Well I wasn't around at that time, but I'm glad Furtopia was a great help to you. I hope the "goodbye" feel I get from this is all in my head.

Don't worry; I'm gonna be around for a long time, if not a little more active.  School's just been a real bear. 

i see stories like this allot on another forum i frequent and it always makes me wonder what exactly it is about the anonymity of internet that seems to make people inherently nice.

...well, sites that aren't flooded with kids and trolls at least. you get my point tho lol.
well anyway... i wasn't here at the time but just do how you do lol. it's your life so far be it for someone like me to tell you how to enjoy and live it.
keep on truckin brah. d(o.o)b

Well, I may not have been here then, but I am glad to hear that the people here did help. I know that, had I been here, I would have tried to be encouraging, at least. 

Glad to see your doing better and are happier now than then.

i see stories like this allot on another forum i frequent and it always makes me wonder what exactly it is about the anonymity of internet that seems to make people inherently nice.

Well, the internet seems to encourage all sorts of extremes: some places are simply complete messes, because they ARE messes, they encourage the sustainment of that mess, as its seen as being acceptable. On the other hand, some places are quite pleasant, like here, nice and not a mess, and that promotes a continuation of that behavioral policy.

It warms my heart whenever I hear a story like this. Alex, I remember the thread you're talking about, and I remember being really worried about you at the time. And I know it took you a while to sort everything out, but I just wanted to say that I've been incredibly happy to see you slowly becoming more comfortable in your own skin. Best of luck to you, and I have a hunch that you'll find eternal happiness sooner than you think.

[Pet'sname:]

Though I was not on here during that time, my wish for u would have been that of only love and support. I want the best for u and everyone I care about. I'm glad things for u are better and I only hope that things get better and better. *snuggles* if u would ever like to chat Id love to talk

I agree! This place is a good source of support! Back in early - mid 2007 when I had my lowest times in my life I had the support of those here and thanks for the advice and thoughts of many I made some very tough decisions and turned my life around and gave me a fresh start with things! 

True that!

Here is a few quotes if you ever feel you need some more guidince.

"The undisturbed mind is like the calm body water reflecting the brilliance of the moon. Empty the mind and you will realize the undisturbed mind." - Yagyu Jubei

A wise man, recognizing that the world is but an illusion, does not act as if it is real, so he escapes the suffering. - Buddha

You know, I'm glad that a lot of the furs here feel the same way.  I remember Arbutus posting (probably one of the first things I remember from him).  I didn't understand too much of the concern others had for me, but I knew it was there, and that's what mattered.

I dunno... the difference is like night and day.  While things aren't perfect, they're... well, great. 

Anyway, yeah.  Thanks, guys. 

Glad to see your in a better place Alexandre.  I remember your original posts as you struggled with these issues and it's great to see how you have moved forward from where you were.