Almost every day I feel momentary flashes of hopelessness…
““Almost every day I feel momentary flashes of hopelessness and wonder every time whether I am slipping. For a petrifying instant here and there, a lightning-quick flash, I want a car to run me over and I have to grit my teeth to stay on the sidewalk until the light turns green; or I imagine how easily I might cut my wrists; or I taste hungrily the metal tip of a gun in my mouth; or I picture going to sleep and never waking up again. I hate those feelings, but I know that they have driven me to look deeper at life, to find and cling to reasons for living. I cannot find it in me to regret entirely the course my life has taken. Every day, I choose, sometimes gamely and sometimes against the moment’s reason, to be alive. Is that not a rare joy?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A person experiences intense, fleeting thoughts of self-harm but chooses to live, finding meaning in the act of choosing life despite suffering.
In simple terms: Even when feeling hopeless, choosing to stay alive is a rare joy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the decision to live each day.
Themes
mental health
resilience
meaning
survival
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
personal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal crisis
- daily coping
- support groups
Key Concepts
existentialism
self‑compassion
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What small actions help you stay grounded?
- How can you seek support when darkness returns?
A Different Perspective
The quote may romanticize suffering, overlooking professional help.