Faded Jeans Living

You’re Not Alone

---

“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about” – Robin Williams

I haven’t typed a single word yet, and I’m already choking back tears. I know there are many of you out there right now facing your own battles alone—feeling despair, isolation, and exhaustion. This is my hug to YOU. This is my attempt to bring forth to you some light.

You are not alone:

– I say this because I attempted suicide.

– I say this because I hid my pain behind a beer bottle for 40 years—and then fought for sobriety.

– I say this because I took a six‑week leave of absence from work for depression.

– I say this because I still have days in bed hiding from life.

– I say this because I was flooded with negative self talk.

– I say this because I’ve carried the guilt of my divorce and its impact on my children.

– I say this because there were times I was hard on my kids and didn’t give them the best version of me.

– I say this because I know what it’s like to realize you’ve been climbing the wrong mountain.

– I say this because I know the feeling of inadequacy.

– I say this because I know the despair and shame of looking successful on the outside while being buried in debt.

– I say this because I regret many poor choices I made in my younger years.

– I say this because of much more.

I write all of this out loud so you can hear it. Every one of us must face our own dark nights and decide how we will move forward.

All I can share is what has helped me—offering myself an abundance of self‑love. Some battles may never fully disappear, but with love, the light always prevails.

I can’t explain why we must face these challenges, but in my own journey, every struggle opened a new door—leading me toward healing, growth, and becoming a better human. I can see now the gifts they provided, though at the time, each was truly a battle. I stand beside you, offering a loving space to simply be: to heal, to put down your sword, to be real, and to love again who you are and the life you have.

Please remember, you don’t have to face your battles alone. Seek the help and support you need—whether from a trusted friend, a counselor, or one of the many professional resources available. Many of us were never taught—or given—the tools to navigate life in a healthy way. With faith, courage, and good work, you can climb your way back up. Believe me.

Your friend,

Dwight

HydeD66@gmail.com