An idea for additional support-

[charmed]

Posting on Ojar is very rewarding in receiving and offering support. Also, it is a pleasure to meet wonderful people and share experiences.

My idea-

Sometimes we need more than text and a real voice can be so helpful. Some have friends and relatives to talk to and some don't. Some don't feel comfortable. Anyway LOL I think it would be nice to have phone support for those that feel comfortable. I know some posts give me the impression that some are deeply depressed and having this support could make a great deal of difference.

I have unlimited long distance to the US and Canada and would be willing to be on a list offering phone support.

I know we all have lives and can't stay on the phone 24/7 LOL, but with a "phone support group" this might work well.

Just an idea. What do you think?

`charmed

[Cowboy12]

Top idea Charmed ...probably best to run it by Micheal first...   I guess it doesn't affect me as I am in Europe ..but I think you are really on to something here.

The advice a lot of people on here give, is really invaluble. Nothing like experience eh!!

[sheyd]

Cowboy - there are others in Europe - and International calling cards really do work!  

I am not sure how Michael will feel about it... One thing, though, is that you can kinda do that yourself if you want to.  I PMed people whose posts I really appreciated and made friends with some of them.  I have my own phone network that is really lovely when I am down... although sometimes the board and strangers are easier (less invested in you, more objective and less protective).  

The only trouble I see with it, really - is that sometimes the odd and angry duck comes on here, not sure I want those folks to have my number until they cool down some... know what I mean?

Shey

[slowlearner]

I think it's a great idea, and a real person to talk to could make a big difference to some people. Although it would have to be understood that it's not a substitute for counselling.

Maybe the Ojar chat room is a sort of a compromise on this idea - more of a conversation between two or more people.

SL

[charmed]

I agree that there could be some "odd and angry ducks" LOL

This would have to be thought out and phone numbers not listed in a topic where anyone can see them. Non-members could read the post and we might get a lot of unexpected phone calls LOL

Maybe a password protected area or a list by email would work. I don't know LOL

[sheyd]

Yes - the chat room is good - you could also then give your number or ask for numbers if you need a voice chat... (I like voice chats better too!)  

I am willing to give my number to people I have emailed with a bit quite easily, so if people feel the need for a voice, PM me a bit!  Others can mention the same, and you could get a list of voice-friendly people for yourself... However, I am not really comfortable with giving it out over a board. (Sorry!)

Shey

[charmed]

I'm not comfortable giving out my number over the board either. This was an idea, but the details aren't in my head yet LOL

[Cowboy12]

"odd and angry ducks" LOL
  that is Class .....  quack quack  I say !!!!


I go to AL-Anon  ...but I don't think of it as counselling rather guidance ...just like OJAR !!

[charmed]

Ojar has a chat room? LOL

[Cowboy12]

How do you get to the chat room !!!

[slowlearner]

Michael is working on a chat board for registered members, but in the meantime, we have a workaround.

Do you have AOL instant messenger? sheesh, have to think now, I'll open a room then tell you how to join... the room will be called Ojar.

[slowlearner]

cowboy, I sent you a PM cos I can't figure it out in German  

[francesca]

I don't even know what a PM is, I'm so technically inept!  LOL

I'd be interested in your good idea for additional support.  Keep me posted, no pun intended.

[mine]

i love talking to people on the phone ...it is far more sincere....
and personally.......i have realised ..that there is no one out here..in uk at least...to offer good help...
for people who are in need of it......

[charmed]

Maybe we could have a list by states, countries that would like to offer their support or ones that need support. Kind of a match up list LOL NOT a hook-up list mind ya