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I reckon this is a really important subject that us blokes don't discuss enough (being blokes). The highest percentage demographic of suicide is by middle-aged men in Australia (and probably also the USA). So forgive me if I share my thoughts on the subject.

For me, it was mainly a re-evaluation of two things:
- my identity and,
- what's really important in life, what's my purpose.

I'm learning that identity sourced from external things (career, achievements, what other people think, possessions, etc) is a poor foundation that will usually collapse in the end. Identity needs to come from within (and if you believe, from God).

The bottom line is who you are (your character) is infinitely more important than what you achieve, build or own. Your character influences everyone around you. So who you influence and how you influence them is the big opportunity. So, while you probably won't be remembered in 40 years time, your influence (your example) with those you love (and who they in turn influence) can be a lasting heritage.

You can also buy a motorcycle. No one will remember you but at least you might go out with a bang.



Golly, I hope not, Richard — go out with a bang, that is. Everything else you said is really great advice.

Supertramp put it slightly differently in a few lyrics in their tune, "Poor Boy," on the Crisis? What Crisis album:

"With one drop of rain they complain
And it's the same about the wage they're earnin'
Well that is not how it is going to be with me
Though I'm a poor boy, I can still be happy
As long as I can feel free."

Life's what we make of it. The sooner we see that, the better.