To Those I Have Loved & Lost, Pt. 2

Letters, continued

February 18, 2011

Dear Self,

You've been through these hard times before. Depression is a part of who you are; it's in your genes. You sometimes make it more difficult on yourself by living in the moment and not considering the future damage, which is fine as long as you are willing to feel this miserable at times. Just keep going: there's a light in the distance. Depend on nature. These stars, these woods, these rocks and water, moon and sun, this God, they will be here eternally. Put your hope, faith, and thoughts in these things. God will never disappoint you, as humans do. Always, always find a welcoming place. A comforting book (Cold Mountain, Jane Eyre), songs of solitude (Skinny Love, I Am A Rock). A hot bath or shower. An always loving and attentive feline (Fiona). Show just enough sadness to those who care so they can give you a hug or smile. Don't be dramatic. Separate yourself from this world. Let your thoughts be on the birds and the bugs, not people or society. Cherish all things Godly. Please, for your own sake, don't internalize, don't obsess, don't worry. Be patient with God and his perfect plan for you. Never lose hope in your life, your outlook. Focus on the happy parts of life. If something is going wrong in life, reassure yourself:

1. It's not permanent 

2. Nothing survives.

3. There are countless people who truly care about your well-being.

4. You have loads to offer this world. Work well where you can.

5. You are unmistakably beautiful.

Live and continue on, no matter how bad it gets. Find Mama  & Daddy, your sisters, Caleb. Be forever thankful. It can always be worse.

-Self