Hard Times

 Make You Wonder Why You Even Try

All that I want is to wake up fine... 

Okay, that's plenty with the Paramore lyrics, aye?

I have to confess to loving that song for about a month before actually hearing the story our Hayley was telling. I am not the brightest bulb on the tree. That talent to convey suffering in a very upbeat at catchy song is incredible. I wish I had a musical talent. Even a writing talent would do. 

Friends are important. Especially now. Time to reconnect

Hard times though, they are rough aren't they? To think that some of the most talented, creatively smart people, as well as hugely successful individuals still can suffer the same hard times mentally as you and I do. Should it provide some level of comfort? I don't know if it should but it does for me. It's funny, even with so much attention now placed on the importance of looking after your mental health and for people to be open, more specifically men, discussing anxiety, stress and depression has never been more encouraged. 

Getting back to socialising will be so important

But sometimes, again only my opinion, it does feel alienating. Like people might want to take a  step back, as if they don't want to deal with it in close quarters. The stigma that many people and organisations are determined to break down is definitely still there. The negative connotations are there too. 

And how do I know that?

That's easy... I feel them and if I am honest, I am guilty of being judgemental too. Ironic that someone who has had so much support from health professionals and others, as well as my workplace where the level of support has been second to none. So, if I look negatively at other people with mental health issues, how can people who don't suffer be expected to get it? 

To be clear - My negativity isn't in suggesting these problems and more serious disorders aren't real. It's more falling easily onto the trap that people are  "kicking the arse out of it" as they say. I am working hard to change that. To let go of that cynical outlook and accept people for who and what they are. That’s something that’s actually making me feel better and be a better man. I’ve touched on it before but I am finding the best way to live my life is to let others live theirs too. Give everyone the benefit of the doubt until they give you a reason not to. 

  I came across this picture on LinkedIn and it touched me. People who inspired and touched so many, taken by suicide. It reminds me that it’s so important to be there for friends and family. Nobody ever really knows what’s going on behind the eyes. 

As a huge music fan it's easy to say how I identify with those people but really it was Chestier Bennington that hit me hard. A man who's music many a fan would agree has helped them through hard times. That kinda hurt that one. Still, to take the positives from his life is the best we all can do and obviously that applies to anyone who has been taken from us early. 

In short, I suppose I am saying take the positives from people, treat everyone the way you would like to be treated. Listen to your friends and reach out. It's good to talk but it's just as important to listen. 

Yer auld pal Sammy.. 

Please enjoy some Paramore