This post is triggered by a post from AK. He noticed one of his reader might be at risk/ already in depression. It reminded me of a period of difficulty, when I see only suffering. I was lucky, there was solace from home, although my spouse's family also meet with difficulty. Yup, it never rains but pour. Ironically, the solace I seek then was work. Being with my pupils. I live by the day, waiting for the quiet of night to have some peace.  I also know of someone who always talk about taking her life. I know of her difficulty and her unfortunate set of cards dealt to her. She did not manage to find solace, as far as I am concerned, it has been a year.  I remember when I bantered Zen with my uni lecturer long ago, she was telling me philosophy and kindness is ......