But, it is the answer you needed to give and that is exactly what I want to hear — the truth in all its sad ugliness.

First, I am so sorry. That goes without saying and helps little, if at all.

As for work, well, keep trying. That’s all you can do. Is your old company still in business? A chance of being called back to work? Long shot probably so other stones must be turned. Truly sucks being out there again in spite of this unbelievably successful trickle-down Trump economy 🙄 Worse comes to worse you can get one of those thousands of steel and coal jobs he created. Okay, sorry, for the Trump jokes that are more sad than funny. Simply hoping to transform a grimace to a smile.

I know you are understandably depressed but are you well physically? Recovered from the flu? Your health is number one. Counseling for the depression? Might help. Probably can’t hurt.

I am distressed that you canceled all your writer privileges. You need that outlet. Keep working to get as many restored as possible and, in the meanwhile, write for the publications you can. Some writing income will help.

That’s it. All I’ve got except to say I am sure you’ve survived worse. And, yeah, the whole survival thing is exhausting and overwhelming and a drag but that’s what we do, right? Survive and then write about it.

I know you don’t agree at this moment but you’ve got this. You know the path, can jump over the fallen logs and kick away the stones, swim the rivers and climb the mountains.

You’ve got this.

Hugs and handholding from not-too-warm Florida. Call if you need an ear more than fingers — I’ve got two in working order.