I have been conflicted for a long time about the appropriateness of commenting on authors' works for whom I don't 'work'. There is no question that I have a particular style and set of standards and it may not be compatible with every author.

Yet, I also want to help others grow in the craft and that can not happen without constructive criticism.

It seems, though, that some may have misunderstood my goals and intentions. I truly regret that.

Another of my goals was to maintain a level of civility and professionalism within the community. Perhaps I should have known better.

Regrettably, I am coming to the realization that I have gone further down the path than I should. Not, perhaps, that I shouldn't go, but that I am not yet truly prepared for the journey.

This is difficult for me, as contributing to the community has been one of the few things in my life I felt was going well, something positive to support me in a time of stress, disappointment and depression.

So, I need some time to re-group, recoup, and try to see where life leads from here.

I am not leaving, just fading for a while into the background.

I'm so very sorry.