I've noticed that ever since my transplant I have been very optimistic and motivated (or perhaps driven is an even better word.) My personality practically did a 180, because it reminded me of the fragility of life and the fact that I can't waste any time I might have. I didn't have these inclinations before my kidneys failed, to be honest. Do you think it is necessary for one to go through very bad times in order to make the most out of the good?

I don't know if you need a traumatic experience, but I do think a little suffering puts life in perspective. People are stupid to avoid suffering at such costs. We evolved as a species that went through trauma.

At one time I went through real dehydration, in a way that 99% of people never will, I thought I could smell the water in a rock. Ever since then, I've appreciated every drop of water more than if that had never happened to me.

(May 13, 2018 at 8:09 pm)Aegon Wrote: I've noticed that ever since my transplant I have been very optimistic and motivated (or perhaps driven is an even better word.) My personality practically did a 180, because it reminded me of the fragility of life and the fact that I can't waste any time I might have. I didn't have these inclinations before my kidneys failed, to be honest. Do you think it is necessary for one to go through very bad times in order to make the most out of the good?

Yes

Probably depends on the individual more than anything else.

Do homeless veterans with PTSD appreciate living?

Hmmm I don't know that it helped me. Although my experiences were likely a completely different thing.

No, and not necessarily trauma, though if you do come out the other side it tends to open your eyes. 

Some good life events are definitely life changing. 

Consider a child coming into your life (birth/adopt/foster). Finding your (next) love. Getting your dream job.

(May 13, 2018 at 8:24 pm)Minimalist Wrote: Probably depends on the individual more than anything else.

Do homeless veterans with PTSD appreciate living?

Ever give one a McDonald's cheeseburger? He'll appreciate it more than anyone else.

One thing about bad kidneys- they can really jack up your body, and that has to play hob with your psychological well-being.

I think it depends on the individual.

There are those who go through a traumatic event and get a better appreciation for life. And there are those who live every day that way without ever having anything bad happen to them (bastards!).

Then there's me. I had a very bad motorcycle accident in my early 20s, and my heart stopped for nearly 20 minutes. And I'm still the same miserable, somewhat psychotic individual I've always been. Except, perhaps, that I have a death wish (according to my parents).

(May 13, 2018 at 8:51 pm)CapnAwesome Wrote:

(May 13, 2018 at 8:24 pm)Minimalist Wrote: Probably depends on the individual more than anything else.

Do homeless veterans with PTSD appreciate living?

Ever give one a McDonald's cheeseburger? He'll appreciate it more than anyone else.

Maybe.  He might say, "who do you think I look like?  Fucking Trump??"

Why insult a complete stranger?