Thanks for getting me to a place to consider this. After listening to WNYC yesterday, I felt intimately connected to the World Trade Center attack. Hearing the words of so many survivors, rescuers the painful emotions that started on Sept 11, 2001 and continue through the decade that followed (and that follows). For me this decade is measure quite clearly on my daughter's birthday. Madeline was born just 16 days before the attack. While coping with a post-partum centered on MS progression and my ability to parent, my uncertain future had reached horrifying levels as we all mourned this enourmous loss.    During the week that followed, I found a coping mechanism that I continue to use every day since that horrible time.   I don't read or watch the news. More appropriately, I only read or listen to certain news sources. (NPR and the NewYorker.) It's easy for me to find control over what and how I learn. (hmmm... that sounds familiar!) I filter the information I feel I need to know, and turn off that which I don't need, or will be a source of extreme emotions.   It was never more evident than the week after the 11th. The New York Times cover page in full color showed images of people jumping from the towers. An image I may never be able to cope with. That was it. I feel that if it is very important, I will learn about it.  (My husband serves as an excellent editor when it comes to that!) And while I may not know about the inappropriate behavior of Charlie Sheen, or the details about the bills that don't pass the house that should.. I find I'm less angry, less stressed and can use my energy on everything that is required to keep me moving forward.   I guess that is what PWMS talk about when they say that their diagnosis put everything in to a new perspective. Recognizing what we need to know, do, feel is more important when the resources are limited.     It's strengthened me immeasurably. THanks for making me think of this Cathy~