In 3 hours, I’m going to the hospital to be with a dear young friend of mine who attempted to kill himself over the weekend.

Earlier this morning over coffee, I made a new friend who opened up to me about his struggles growing up with depression, anxiety, and addiction.

In ten minutes, I’m going to sit down in front of a counselor to help me navigate all of this in health.

I say all of this to you because I want you to not only know – but to believe – that there is Hope.

There is Goodness in this world – and it can start with you.

There is Love that shines brighter than the sun – and the world needs it.

There is Beauty that can be found – even in the darkest, most painful chapters of our lives.

There is Peace that overpowers all the chaos around us – and transcends all understanding.

Jesus once told his friends, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

I want you to have life to the full.

I want you to keep searching for it, even when all hope is lost.

I want you to know that you’re more than the messes you’ve made.

I want you to believe that your life actually does matter to the rest of us.

You’re going to need Truth Tellers in your life who can remind you of who you are and that what you’re going through is only temporary – and they’re going to need you.

The story of your life doesn’t have to end with the chapter you’re walking through now.

The story of your life is far more beautiful and intricate than you may realize.

The story of your life is one we all need to hear.

Stay in it.

You are known, loved, and worth more than you can fathom – to God and to the rest of us.

You matter,

Ryan