Twitter wit Notorious Debi Hope advises us, ""Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, first make sure that you are not, in fact, just surrounded by assho--s."" That''s wise counsel for you to keep in mind during the next three weeks. Let me add a few corollaries. First, stave off any temptation you might have to believe that others know what''s good for you better than you do. Second, figure out what everyone thinks of you and aggressively liberate yourself from their opinions. Third, if anyone even hints at not giving you the respect you deserve, banish them for at least three weeks.

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I was born under the sign of Cancerian the Crab. One of the potential weaknesses of our tribe is that we can tend to be almost pathologically self-sufficient. Some of us may find it challenging to ask for help and support. In my continuing effort to overcome this inclination, I''m asking for your gifts!

If you would like to contribute to me and my well-being, please visit my Gift Page. Donate via the ""Friends and Family"" option.