Something from Long Ago

So, I had/have this habit of writing random strangers that I find on the internet, mostly through Craigslist. I found this randomly in my outbox today. The timestamp is from about two years ago, 10/25/2009. It's insane to think that I've been saying the same thing (in almost the same tone) for so long. The only difference is, lately, I feel like I finally took some of my own advice. Except for working out. I'm unhealthy as shit these days:

RE: LIFE BLOWS

Yo man,

I just read your post and I'm not responding by telling you that you shouldn't feel like that, because honestly, I feel like that a lot. What I will tell you though is that the things you want to happen in your life will happen if you don't pursue them directly. I mean, let's be real, I just read your post--you're defeated as shit right now. In the current moment, you are feeling like a loser, and how you feel dictates how you appear. So yes--if you feel like you can't get a new job or a new girl, you won't.

Here's where the TV commercial would sell you a book on how to believe in yourself and all that shit, but fuck that. The only thing that's going to make you feel better about yourself (and in turn feel better and have some actual success) is to be happy with yourself. Obviously you're not happy with the way you're living your life, so you need to ask yourself what things you can put in there that will help. Now I know you probably can't quit your job because of financial reasons, but there's got to be something else that you can do for yourself that you enjoy. Reading? Music? Art? Exercise? I mean, take the latter--that will address your energy right there. I know it sucks, but just do it--yeah, you'll have gone to the job you don't like, but at least you did something for yourself, you know?

Please don't write this off. Like I said, I know the exact feelings you're describing and the only way to address them is to fill your life with things that make you feel good. I know they exist, as do you, so draw them out and make yourself do those things. You will eventually feel better.

Lastly, man--being a virgin will not stop you from being very happy with a woman. Even if you're uncomfortable being with an experienced woman, do you think there aren't 26-year-old virgins out there? Puh-lease! What is key is being happy with yourself, which will inspire you with confidence. It will. It will it will it will.

I want to say more, but I also don't want you to see 10 pages and delete this email immediately. Feel free to write me back, and please--go for a jog tomorrow. Just a jog. It's better than nothing.

-Robert L