Neil, I didn't say you were 'fine' before going in the seed.
First, that would be admittedly awfully presumptious of me seeing how I didn't know you. I wasn't 'fine' either my man, I had issues.
What I said was your characterization was overly harsh and very black and white. People generally are mostly good or mostly bad, but no one is totally either. Outside forces generally don't change that, such as other people, institutions or whatnot.
So, I am suggesting that even tho you had problems before going in the seed, you were the same person you are now, which I assume is a pretty good guy.
If you were able to use the seed as a turning point in your life, and you didn't take away problems...congrats.
Also, thanks for getting that these experiences are various for different people.