N4L 005: "Your Life Isn't for You" by Seth Adam Smith

In November 2013, award-winning author and blogger Seth Adam Smith unwittingly catapulted his writing career. He wrote a blog post entitled, "Marriage Isn't for You." Then he got over 24 million hits and, in just three days! Obviously, his message hit a nerve with people the world over. News organizations picked up his message, turning Smith into something of a reluctant young rock star. Although these days he tries to maintain his privacy, his post led to publishing the book, "Your Life Isn't for You: A Selfish Person's Guide to Being Selfless." With brutal honesty, he shares his journey of fighting depression and escaping his own attempted suicide. Smith structures his book around the children's story from the Book of Virtues called "The Selfish Giant," which his father read to him as a young boy. Like the giant, Smith built up his own walls, breeding selfishness. Fortunately, he eventually learned how to tear down those barriers, allowing people back into his life. And when the walls came down, he opened himself up to beautiful relationships and emotional connections. Although he admits selfishness often emerges as a self-preserving tool, Smith believes it's also the biggest stumbling block to healthy relationships.  Sadly, people suffering from depression often rebuff helpful gestures from loving friends and family. Yet, Smith assures us, consistent efforts are, in the end, very helpful. These kindnesses can come be "soft" gestures or harsh truths. In either case, well-intentioned helpers will only find peace by controlling their own actions, not by waiting to have people with depression receive their kindnesses.  Smith now works with the Anazasi Foundation. There, and through his writing, he channels his experience to help others fight depression and prevent suicide. His book includes several of his antidotes for depression. Here are just three: Learn to love the people you serve. Depression often requires medication and professional counseling, but reaching out to others can also be an effective tool for recovery. Seek out support groups and professional help. Joining a strong community can be a lifeline of strength and trust. Similarly, Smith strongly encourages going to counseling to get invaluable advice from trained experts. Look for your own "Northern Lights." Spiritual sources of light and strength are all around us. In one form, they're connections to others. Another form is service. Smith is particularly fond of the light he finds in excellent literature, uplifting and inspiring the soul. BUY Your Life Isn't for You: A Selfish Person's Guide to Being Selfless Music Credit Sound Editing Credit