The story of inspiration to make the Stop for Life promise and how it can change your way of thinking
This story begins when I was 15. My dad and I were at a restaurant, meeting some of his friends after the funeral of another friend who had taken his own life.
At a poignant moment, my father looked me squarely in the eyes—his expression more serious than I had ever seen—and said, “Will, I need you to make a promise to me.”
Typical of a teenager, I rolled my eyes and replied, “Yeah, dad?”
He emphasized the gravity of his request. “Okay, okay, what promise?” I relented.
He said, “Promise me this. If life ever feels so unbearable, so despairing that you consider ending it, promise me you'll do one thing first.”
Curious, I asked, “What's that?”
“Do whatever is necessary," he said. "Sell everything if you have to. Buy a motorcycle and ride from one end of the country to the other. Let it be a journey, just you, the bike, and the open road. If, at the end of that trip, you still feel the same, then so be it. But promise me you'll do that first.”
With genuine solemnity, I gave him my word. To me, the idea seemed rather far-fetched; I wasn’t even into motorcycles. Yet, that promise has anchored me throughout my life.
Now in my fifties, I’ve weathered my fair share of life’s storms. Everyone has their unique journey, punctuated by joys and heartaches.
In the darker times, when despair felt overwhelming, the promise to my father surfaced in my mind. It posed the question: “Is it really time to sell everything and buy that motorcycle?” Instead of getting lost in the depths of my anguish, I found myself daydreaming about routes and destinations. Would I choose the legendary Route 66? This mental safety net pulled me out of my despair, redirecting my thoughts.
Though I never embarked on that motorcycle journey, the mere idea of it provided a respite during some of my lowest moments. It’s impossible to say if this promise truly deterred me from making a tragic choice, but it unquestionably steered me away from incessant negative spirals.
This commitment became my mental safeguard against the abyss of despair. It gave me an alternative to ruminate on when the weight of the world became unbearable.
Life, with its unpredictable ebbs and flows, is guaranteed to change. In joyful times, it’s wise to be grateful and stay grounded, knowing challenges might be lurking. Conversely, during hardships, it's heartening to remember better days will come.
I urge you to make a similar promise, whether to a parent, a friend, a loved one, or even to me. Your commitment can differ from mine, but ensure it aligns with our guiding principles.
For those wary of seeking help from strangers or helplines, this pledge offers a personal alternative. It's a commitment to oneself and someone who genuinely cares. Consider taking the Stop for Life promise. It demands nothing from you but might one day save your life. At the very least, it offers a beacon of hope during tumultuous times.
