Zoë Samantha

Serious subject matter here. I don’t know about you, but when I get overwhelmed (and with an anxiety disorder, that is OFTEN), my mind defaults to suicidal ideation. I am working on preventing this, but sometimes life just piles on the hurt and your mind goes to a dark place. So, this is my counter. It’s kind of similar to the idea “I can survive anything for the next 10 seconds” and then repeating it.

I may struggle with existing right now, but my life WILL end eventually. And if that’s the case, then I may as well stick it out until then. I may as well TRY to endure it and change things.

And, in having made that choice over and over, my life HAS gotten better. I mean, look at how much my art has improved. I have a book now? I am in a relationship with someone who is supportive and kind. I live in a beautiful place. And I wouldn’t have seen any of this happening when I was buried under my depression two years ago.

Please take a moment and think about it; what has gotten better in your life when you have chosen to stick around and fight?

I really thought for a long time that if I just found the right friends and the right partner, and if I fixed the relationships with my family, that I would be filled with love and peace, and I would never feel weak or alone or unlovable ever again. Ha, well. Truth is, you can have wonderful relationships, but their love won’t register well if your inner monologue is abusive.  “Insecurity makes ALL compliments fake” - u/TheDiplo So, challenge time: How can you show yourself more compassion and care today?