Thank you to all who responded. Again, this type of dialogue really helps me out.
As far as overthinking what to say to others, maybe I am. I think part of it (if not all of it) stems from a desire to come clean. By talking about my past with others, it's almost as if I'm looking to get it off my chest. I believe that had somethign to do with why i sought this place out. Maybe I don't have to. To be honest, fessing up is not something that I've really ever gone way out of my way to do. I have done it, but it is usually with a little prompting, or because I have feelings of guilt. I guess I'm feeling guilty, or at the very least very regretful, of how dangerous and irresponsible I've been when I put myself in jeopardy so many times.
Thanks again to all those who responded. This site has really helped me out and encouraged me.
Ortho