Dear Depression,

I think we all get lost at some point, but you made it especially difficult for me to make it day in and day out. You had me under the illusion that giving up would be the best option. I believe to maintain sanity in humanity, kindness is key. My past and the hardships you burdened me with are the reasons I strive to bring joy to others. I thrive off being fortunate enough to make someone else’s day better. The more you brought me down, the more you taught me to be kind, to be patient, and to be understanding.

During the time we spent together, we managed to learn a lot about each other. You learned about what brought me happiness and then found ways to destroy it. You learned about how bright my world was and continuously discovered new ways to darken it. We fought constantly and again and again you came out on top. All the hardships you put me through made me walk around with a burden for years, but that did not stop me from finding my will to live. When I was finally the one to beat you, I realized how incredibly strong and independent of a woman I am. You pushed me to my limits on how much pain and sadness my mind could endure, and then you would surpass it; but I survived. You drove me to my breaking points, both physically and mentally. As the days grew longer, my body felt weaker. I almost gave up, but I survived. You kept telling me to give up, but I persevered. For this, I want to thank you for reminding me that I am capable of making my own decisions. Thank you for leading me to a healthier lifestyle, where I have had the honor of meeting the most inspirational people in my life. Thank you for teaching me that I am nothing less than extraordinary. Through all of the years we have spent with each other, I am now much stronger mentally and physically.

Depression, you had a special way of showing me the gift of life. I have grown from allowing you to consume me and everything I once was; thus leading me to once again finding the beauty in the simple things I used to enjoy so much. From the exquisiteness of a person’s soul, to the beauty of what is to be discovered, I forgot these little things which once captivated my mind. Things such as the miraculous canvas heaven paints while the sun makes its journey through the sky, above the grass as it dances to the rhythm of the wind. I cannot thank you enough for helping me realize that everything in my life is a blessing.

Not only do I want to thank you for starting my journey on finding myself, but I want to say thank you for showing me how much I love my parents. Throughout the years of fighting, I truly despised them. People would always say, “One day you’ll realize how lucky you are to have them.” I never believed them. I couldn't wait for the day I would leave home for good. Now, I can honestly say I am beyond grateful to have them. When I speak of them to others, I proudly call them my mom and dad. I miss home, their hugs, and their wise words. I am honored to have such wonderful parents.

The battles an individual fights are not always obvious. When I do a good deed for a stranger, I hope it leaves a positive impact on their life. I wish for it to remind them of the good in the world, and cancel out any negative thoughts you placed in their mind. I hope it provides them faith on their darkest days because I want them to know that they are loved and noticed. I understand how it feels to be stranded alone with you, Depression. My dream is they realize there is a tomorrow and a day after. More than anything, I hope they realize their worth to the world is irreplaceable. You never know what someone else is going through; we all have our own demons.

Love,

An Old Friend