How we’re stronger together

NEVER speak too soon. Last week I waxed enthusiastic about boxing at the gym and lifting weights. Hoping to encourage you all, I have previously celebrated my get-up-and-go feeling to remind you it’s never to late to start getting fit.

Well, even before the last column was printed I was floored by the nasty cold, debilitating dry cough and exhaustion that has afflicted so many this winter. I had to skip my gym session and cancel a work event in London I was looking forward to.

Having bronchial problems since I was three months old, I’m always terrified of a cold leading to a chest infection. So I moped around in bed feeling sorry for myself. Isn’t that the way of the world? One step forward and two steps back. But I’m so lucky to be cheered by some appreciative emails this week.

For example, here is Barbara: ‘Thank you again for all the times you lift my spirits, none more so than today’s gems. The pleasure I get from my feelings being identified by you and your wise replies guides me through these dire days, when so many are suffering. We need to encourage everyone to speak up for themselves but accept that others also have the right to a view. Self-respect must encourage others to understand that human emotion is complex. We can control our own reactions. Bless you!’

Then I was pleased that Valerie, a trained counsellor, endorsed my advice on ‘the power of writing as a potent means of exorcism’. She ended: ‘I guess many of your correspondents write to express their gratitude but I’d like to say “well done”, too.’

And, about a different issue, Jane comments: ‘I felt I had to tell you how much your response to the correspondent meant to me and validated my decision to stay and work through events that led to my situation. I am truly grateful for your words of wisdom.’

I’m grateful too — to all of you who write in with helpful comments. Through mutual encouragment we can grow stronger together.

BeL answers readers’ questions on emotional and relationship problems each week. Write to Bel mooney, daily mail, 9 derry Street, London W8 5HY, or email bel.mooney@dailymail.co.uk. Names are changed to protect identities. Bel reads all letters but regrets she cannot enter into personal correspondence.