CC - one thing is for sure, you have a burning desire to come to SP. If you do not come get your taste of island life, you will always regret it. This seems to be a place of second chance folks - all just a little odd and mostly kind hearted. Bring enough money or stay home till you get it together. Enjoy, life is short.
p.s. the folks that were not encouraging just don't want to see you get hurt, but none of us know you or your situation.

Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain.