I had the same experience my first few years out of college. Had a long relationship end, started drinking, went through several jobs and within three years found myself alone, severely depressed and an alcoholic. I contemplated suicide frequently, but held out hope my life would change if I could just get to tomorrow. My life started feeling like the movie "Groundhog Day".

Eventually things did change, and my 30's have been a whirlwind of happiness, sobriety and a GF who loves me unconditionally for me. Like you said, if I knew this is where the black hole I fell into would lead to, I would've pushed harder to get sober, try harder to put myself back together sooner. But I'm here now and am grateful I held out and often think about this wonderful life I almost passed on.

Of course, the "just keep breathing, it will change" is just as true for the good times, too.

I try and remember every day to savour and make the most of this happiness, and be grateful for it.

Because it won't last. Nothing does.

Happy to hear you're doing well. Coincidentally, you and I have very similar names.

I used to have access to the UK electoral list. In about 2003 there were 32 "Marcus Holmes" in the list. I also had their addresses. I was contemplating inviting them all to a get-together ;)

I spoke to the guy who owns marcusholmes.com when I got my domain (marcusholmes.biz). Nice chap. American, of course.

Maybe we should have a convention or something. Because we're obviously related. Sherlock was our great-great-uncle (at least, that's what I tell people).