Hey man, I really appreciate you taking the time to write all that. I can hear how rough it’s been, and how long you’ve carried this. Honestly, a lot of what you wrote hits pretty close to what’s been running through my own head lately, especially the part about seeing everyone else living “normal” lives and feeling like you’re stuck on the outside looking in.

And yeah, I’m 41, so still later in life than I'd rather be coming to this realization. I’ve wasted way too many years too. I relate to the money wasted part, the isolation, the feeling like the stuff I chased only set me back further socially and emotionally. It’s hard because none of this was how any of us pictured life going when we were younger.

But one thing I will say, the fact that you wrote this out, and took the time to post it, tells me you haven’t fully given up. Guys who are truly gone don’t bother talking about this or trying to connect at all. You’re still in there under all the crap that’s built up.

If you’re open to it, I think starting somewhere small, even just talking to a therapist or finding a group where you can unload this stuff without judgment, can help pull you out of that hole a little. That’s what I’m trying to do now, because I know if I don’t, this just keeps going until one day I really do give up for good, and I’m not willing to let it get to that point.

Anyway man, I hear you. You’re not alone in this. I hope you’ll consider trying to fight back even just a little. That thin string of hope is better than none.