On the first point: As I mentioned to someone else who was having a related problem, one of the things I've learned from 20 years or so of dealing with Depression is that we can't control the thoughts and feelings that come into our heads. Trying is just an exercise in futility that leads to a whole other set of issues on top of the first one.

What we can do is what you've learned to: We can choose how we react and respond to those thoughts and feelings, whether we latch on to them and own (and be owned by) them or get past them as quickly as possible and move on.

We never become perfect beings of pure energy with no negative thoughts at all. But we can become a lot better at not letting the negativity control or dominate us, and you've done just that.

On the second point: Ooh, yeah, I recognize that Learning Curve*. I just came to terms with the fact that I'm always going to be a Talented Generalist**, and that I will never match the masters of any one thing, but I'll be able to quickly pick up anything I really turn my hand to well enough that someone who isn't skilled in that area will think I'm pretty damn good at it.

*I'd probably use the Icon as well, if you do make one :)

**With thanks to Douglas Coupland for introducing me to a more positive term for it than Jack/Jill/Jane-of-All-Trades.