twiggsupertrampppp asked: Matthew- I know you're busy, and get a lot of questions, and might not have time to respond to this, but I just wanted to say I think you're amazing. I'm so happy you're getting better and everything. You're wonderful, and I can't tell you how much you've inspired me.

& I've got a question as well.

I've been having a really tough time lately, falling into pits of depression and whatnot. Mostly from comparing myself to every single person I see. I was just wondering; how on earth do you maintain such a positive outlook on life? It seems like when I try to believe things will get better, the depression only gets worse.

I don't know. But I love you and all of Madina Lake. Thanks for being such incredible people.

xoxo Clarissa.

the outlook thing is really just trying to discipline that reality for yourself.  trust me, i go through darkness that i wouldn’t even wish upon my neighbor (you know the one)… people tend to place more value on appearing to be something than actually trying to be that something, or even worse, posturing as something they know they aren’t or don’t even want to be.

the problem is that damn ego.  imagine suspended judgment.  i can not wrap my around this world.  what is generally agreed to be the most naturally euphoric feeling is unconditional love.  love with no boundaries.  no matter what you say, think, feel, do etc…is accepted. we have obvious boundaries here, but we might not necessarily need them if everyone was accepted.  find those who accept everything about you and stand for nothing less.  having the good fortune of having found a few myself is what makes everything tolerable.

xoxo