Dearest Jonathan,

Nobody can PROVE to you that your life has not been a waste – I know that. We can only say that it has not been a waste when it comes to your impact and influence on each one of us. You get to believe that or not. I sincerely request that you DO believe it. (It’s really insulting to those of us who value you and care for and about you if you don’t.) I would also encourage yout to remember that having feelings such as you express here is a symptom of your illness. Sometimes it’s helpful to repeat to oneself, “This is a symptom; it is only a symptom.” I do this when I have breakthrough symptoms of my anxiety disorder and it really can help.

Peace, my friend. Remember that I’m in your corner (as are many, many other people).