I know with the current administration and oligarchs, things seem pretty bleak. I want to scream sometimes. But we don't have a lot of control over that. Focus on making your own bubble pleasant. There's so many people doing the same, that if you could see a visual of all the good bubbles, you'd be astounded.

On a personal level, I've been where you are. For YEARS. Most of my life actually. When I was 40, my marriage and community life were stale and empty. I felt hollow, unfulfilled, and hopeless. I knew I wasn't going to make it another five years. So I adopted a dog, even though my spouse said no. That baby got me out in the world and talking to neighbors, she was like a superstar, drawing everyone's attention. It ignited a spark that I thought was completely out.

I came to the realization that divorce was an option, so that's what I did. I moved across the country near family and life has been incredible. At first it was terrifying. Going through a divorce is brutal and things didn't get better immediately. But it was like I crawled out of a cave and saw an expansive world I wanted to explore.

A few years later, I met my current spouse. Every day im so happy and fulfilled. If I could go back to the person I was when I was in that dark place, I would show them how much stronger and resilient I've become and thank them for somehow finding the bravery to make that terrifying jump.

This was my journey. Yours will look vastly different. But I'm so grateful that I didn't end things when I wanted to.

So I guess the answer is, we don't know when things will get better. Life really can surprise you. And there are so many people along the way who want to help you. If you're thinking of ending your life, then shake up your life and go on an adventure before you do. Don't die in the cave, but somewhere amazing, hopefully sometime in the distant future.