Day #17.

A letter to a friend.
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"Everything is gonna be okay."

     When I'm at my worst, reassurance keeps me holding on. Maybe words don't give you emotional hugs, but sometimes they are all that get us through another day.

     You are strong. In mind and soul, you have taken death by the very horns that have hooked into many unfortunate people, and you have slain the beast. Not only have you defeated death once, but twice. You are a Spartacus of sorts. On top of that, your deep and unconditional will to live is proving to be vital in setting foot into the future.

     Take a deep breath. Feel the clean crisp air flow into your lungs. Take another. Feel the life pushing through your heart and your veins. It's as strong as it was before, and each day it will  feel better. You can take in as many breaths as you want! You can breathe! Celebrate this wonderful gift of life.

     The devil on your shoulder will try to convince you to succumb to bad coping mechanisms. He will try to consume positive thoughts. And those moments when you are standing close to that fatal edge will be challenging. But your inner strength can push away the evil urges to crumble under the pressure. That devil will tell you that going over the edge will benefit you, and that you'll feel better. Don't let him win.

     During your stay, make the angel on your other shoulder strong enough to fight those battles. And if the urges come to you, you can fight against them with confidence and motivation.

     After an urge dissappears, remember the accomplishment of fighting it and winning. Each time you win, you will feel even more confidence arise from within. Write in your journal every time you overcome a challenge like this. It will help you if you feel the need to do it again.

     There are triggers that you know of that create the urges, but there are others too that you may be unaware of. These are unexpected moments in your day when you feel anxiety and depression for no reason. When you feel this way, put on your armor, bear your sword and fight! Not only for yourself, but for all of the loved ones around you. They will be standing behind you. They already are!

     When you're swept off your feet with sadness, remember those that care for you. If the devil on your shoulder tells you that nobody cares, shake him off by saying out loud "I am loved." Say it again and again because it will build the angel's strength.

"Everything is gonna be okay."
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137 days remaining.