Dear Depression,

We have only been formally introduced for a few years now, but I have known you for much longer. I have seen you in my friends and in my family, in my neighbors and in my classmates. I have seen you take the lives of once bright and jubilant people, and I am scared of who you will take from me next. You are quite the pest.

I must say, I am impressed by your love of traveling the world. While my home seems to be your favorite, I notice your traces all over the world. From the beautiful landscapes of Ukraine, to the cities and the shores of France. All the way to the sunny skies of Australia, you have been sure to make your presence known.

I feel you in myself at the most inconvenient times. While I am laughing with friends, you’re there like a vexatious mosquito, biting at my ankles, reminding me of the itch I will have to deal with later. I feel you when I wake up from a good night’s rest, ready to rain and wash away my pleasant dreams. Worst of all, I feel you when I am trying to do things to better my life. You’re constantly whispering lies in my ear that make me want to give up. I see you in once bustling communities. Driving through towns where you’ve marked your territory. The skeletons of cities with abandoned homes and buildings on every street, littered with garbage.

I see you every time I turn on or read the news. Between the war torn countries and terror attacks, we can’t seem to escape your grasp. I try to avoid those stories just for my own sanity. The carnage and fear that you produce makes me anxious for the future. I am confident in myself that I will be able to make it through your tight grip, but that leaves me concerned for my loved ones. Will they be strong enough to fight their way out and break down your strong walls? Or will I have to mourn their loss too? Will they realize that they can’t fight your battle alone? Do they know that myself and others in their life are here to keep them afloat? Or will they eventually succumb to your power?

My Dear Depression, I believe that your weakness is Love. That when you see people helping one another, your heart starts to burn. When you witness rallies of love and peace, you become faint. When you see communities come together to love each other after you’ve made your devastating sweep through, I believe that breaks you.

You are not welcome here, in my life, or in our World. I am sure I am not the only person who has asked you to leave, and I know I will not be the last. So here is your reminder, it’s time to pack your bags.

Sincerely,