We just got this message from Jimmy in Texas and I thought I would share it with y’all. Please feel free to respond to Jimmy in the comment section if you have something you’d like to say - I’m sure he’d appreciate it.
im not sure if u will ever get this message, but if u do….i live with many dreams but becase of fincial hold backs and mostly LOW SELF ESTEAM i need someone to help me atian my dreams. i suffer from anxity everday and if you could help me bust out of the hell im in and into life itself… YES this is a cry out for help. yes i have hope and faith …but i just need help.
This was my response:
Hey Jimmy, thanks for your message. It takes a lot to be open about your feelings and you’re very brave to reach out and share them. I’m sorry that you’re feeling so low. The world can seem crazy these days and its easy to sometimes feel overwhelmed and anxious with everything thats going on. Just getting out of bed or going to work can make you feel sad or off track, but its important to step back sometimes and look at the things that you have going for you in life. You’re obviously a very sensitive person and although its hard sometimes to cope, its a beautiful gift to see so much in the world that it hurts. You’re bold too - you even wrote us a letter! That’s great. You should think about writing a list of the things you want to do before you die. Don’t think about money or obstacles, just write down the things that you would like to do the most. Big, small, whatever. It can make you feel very good. When its done, put it on your wall or next to your bed - somewhere where you can look at it everyday and look for ways to accomplish it. Tell your friends about it, or your co-workers. Ask them about their lists. If you can help them with one of their dreams - go for it! It feels great. Often it can help fill the cracks in your life too. Good on you for writing to us. Stay strong!
Nice response. Very cool that you guys are reaching out to people. Where and when are you guys going to be for this summer’s tour? Is there a 2008 summer tour?
Comment by Tyler — May 31, 2008 @ 8:01 pm
:] I like the response.
I hope Jimmy comes out of his shell.
There are many great things in life and I hope he finds the things he feels is great.
Comment by Anna — May 31, 2008 @ 8:13 pm
Great response. Keep the dream alive . God Bless
Comment by Nicholas — May 31, 2008 @ 8:45 pm
hey you guys i just now found out about the buried life on youtube today and to be honest with you i think that your idea rocks ive always dreamed about having my friends and I travel accross the country to complete our life goals and after seeing your documents on youtube it helps motivate me to get together and do something like that im really glad that i found out about you guys its really an inspiration for me to move foward and accomplish my dreams heck in 24 days im planning to go to Germany as a foriegn exchange student wich is something that i have dreamt about doing for a long time but never thought i could do it being the oldest of a large family and all but when my german teacher had our first meeting about it in september i decided to not let anything hold me back and go to germany and expierience the time of my life so i got a job called a few family members for help and now i look at myself and see that i have accomplished wht i had thought to be impossible two months ago but i kept true and never backed down and now i can mark one last thing on my list of things to do before i die.
just thought id give a testimony thanks for being an inspiration
Comment by jake — May 31, 2008 @ 9:01 pm
I demand you guys get to New Jersey.
Comment by Paul — May 31, 2008 @ 9:10 pm
Hi!, today i found out about this and i think this is amazing. For jimmy i would say, that we all have drams and we all want to acomplish them..but only we can make them happen..so you should get up and go for them..of course there´ll be sad days.. but you need them, to get the real feelin´when you do something nice..because if everythig were perfect life would be pointless..
so, if you guys need somthing or jimmy you wanna talk about somthin here is my mail “alguienaki08@hotmail.com”
i´m from uruguay, so.. you now know that you have reach every part of the world..
kisses for you.. and GOOD LUCK from uruguay!!!
Comment by sabrina — May 31, 2008 @ 10:25 pm
I also just found out about this site through youtube. I have to say, it’s inspired me to make my own list and find the means with which to apply it to my life.
To Jimmy I’d say to make your own list. Plan things you want to do and make it happen. I understand the anxiety and the self esteem issues, but if you want to make a change, and I mean really want it, you can do it. I’ve had situations in my life where I was too scared or to afraid to fail so I didn’t even try. What I’ve come to realize is that not trying is guaranteed failure. Don’t be afraid to fail, because the whole reason you fail is to learn how to do it better the next time around.
This is what I listen to when I feel like quitting or not trying because I’m scared to fail:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=NhXXqL3RMqs
“if you want it, you can have it, but you’ve got to learn to reach up there and grab it”
Comment by Mike — June 1, 2008 @ 1:02 am
Hi Jimmy;
First, let me say that if you are feeling badly most of the time, get to a dr. You have to rule out a medical reason for the way you are feeling. If they find something out of wack, so to speak,then it can be corrected. If you needed glasses, would you go get some, or continue to walk into the walls? If they find nothing, that is good too.. because then it is something you can control, and only need to learn how. Ok, that is much easier said then done, but at least you would know where your journey is heading, even if you have to find what path you need to follow.
And I really wonder if you have low self-esteem. Most people really do not understand what self-esteem is.. they confuse it with ego. Do you do what is right in every day circumstances? Or do you what is right for you? I mean, if you were in a check out line with a ton of stuff, and the person behind you only had one thing… would you offer to let them go before you? Do you cheat at things (games, test) if offered the opportunity, or do you do things the ‘right’ way? If you think the world owes you something for being here, and use that to justify how you treat others, then a) you are wrong.. and b) yeah you have a self-esteem problem.. but if you do not think the world owes you anything.. then a)you are right and b) you do not have a self-esteem problem. At times, life sucks. and those times can seem to over shadow the good times. But there are good things too. I am sure you can agree with that..
Anxiety can be scarey. I take meds for mine.. when I get anxious, I tend to scratch at myself.. I even do it in my sleep.. so badly that the scars on my arm looked like track marks.. really, had a guy approach me, looking for heron once they were that bad! So I take the meds, and don’t look like a junkie! lol
About your list..
Write it out.. and remember, it is a work in progress. Things you might want to do today may be very different in a few years.. and really, if you could sit down and think of 100 things to do before you die.. that YOU REALLY want to do before you die.. in one day.. or week, or even month, I would think that you were just grabbing things to do.. not the top 100.. right? My list has only 10 things on it right now. I want to get to 100, but gee, there are so many things to do.. what do I want to do.. REALLY, REALLY want to do.. And money is tight here too.. but since I do not plan on dying next month, or even next year.. I have time to make them come true.. just baby steps…
Making the list could even help with the anxiety, as it gives you control, and also something to look forward to..
Good luck to you
Tracey
Comment by Tracey — June 1, 2008 @ 1:16 am
I just found out about this website today on youtube and you guys and what you are doing is awesome. I plan on making my own list now so that I can fulfill my life dreams. You guys are such an inspiration. You have made me realize that life is short and that you should try to obtain your goals before you are to old to even try.
Comment by Dustin — June 1, 2008 @ 1:43 am
The trailer caught my eye on the front page of youtube, so i clicked and watched… i think its awesome that you guys are fulfilling your dreams and helping out other people along the way… for Jimmy, i say: (this sounds like a stereotype, but its true) Life is short. If you have a dream, go for it, no matter what it required or how long it takes. you never know if tommorow is the end. for you, or for everyone. I hope you break out of your shell, and go for it!
~ John
Comment by John (online name) — June 1, 2008 @ 2:04 am
Jimmy,
Find the energy deep down inside to step out and just try it. Whatever your “Why” or your “it” is, just try it. And make a goal of getting a little bit further every day. Believe in yourself, and go after it. I will make a suggestion of two books to read that could help you: “What to say when you talk to yourself” by Shad Helmstedder, and “The Dream Giver” by Bruce Wilkenson.
I wish you well. Write me back if I can help in any way.
Comment by John - Texas — June 1, 2008 @ 3:35 am
It’s a great idea to have goals, small and large, fun or important. If you have financial setbacks, start with small things you can accomplish at little or no cost, like organizing your photos or paperwork or your office. Once you’re done, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment which makes you feel good about yourself. Do a couple of these projects then focus on something a little more challenging. Depression creates a wall, usually right above you in bed. Force yourself over it and don’t beat yourself up if you allow yourself a day here and there FOR yourself, even if it means sleeping in. Surround yourself with friends and family, if that causes anxiety, ask for a little help to calm your nerves, anxiety is normal and doesn’t make you a weak person, just an anxious person. So you take care of YOU and get the help needed to get you over some of the hurdles. And remember, if a friend came to you asking for help, you wouldn’t deny them and you wouldn’t put them down - do the same for yourself.
Comment by Amy — June 1, 2008 @ 8:01 am
Do what you can with what you have, Jimmy. You can make plans for later, but remember that plans change. Nothing is certain. Like they say, “The only constant in life is change.” And if you want to do something, do it. You don’t know how long you’ll be around to accomplish your dreams, goals, plans, whatever you want to call them. If just being around friends makes you happy, then try making plans with them, too. I think that’s a great idea. I know when I’m with my friends everything seems better than when I’m by myself. I hope things work out for you and that you find your way, Jimmy, I really do. One day at a time, just remember that. Okay?
Take care, be well, be safe
Rachel N.
Comment by Rachel N. — June 1, 2008 @ 9:07 am
hey. i saw your trailer on youtube tody and seriously, what you guys are doing really touched me. it is so cool what you do for people and it is very inspirational. you gus should come to connecticut!!
-katie
Comment by katie — June 1, 2008 @ 12:27 pm
i read all the responces and i want to say THANK YOU. i do suffer from mental illness and i relise there is only so much i can do. but reading all the responces sheds light into the darkness and relise there are others who suffer from anxity and low self esteam as i do. one day at a time, and thows days help when u got people who make u feel not so alone. One thing i am doing now is teling my self that life is my friend instead of my enemy. the buried life’s crew are also a great inspiration to look at WHAT I WANT in life. i thank to many of us know what we dont want, but cant seem to find what we do and thank we cant affored to do what we want or have disabiltys that keep us from doing it. as much as i have issues dealing with this….im wiling to help others and vice versa. here is my email for anyone who wants to talk to help or needs help. THANKS AGIN TO ALL WHO RESPONDED AND OF COURSE THE BURIED LIFE. ambientpm@yahoo.com
Comment by Jimmy in texas — June 1, 2008 @ 3:22 pm
Hey, Jimmy. I understand how you feel when you say you need someone to help you attain your dreams. I feel that way, too. I’m really insecure a lot of the time, and when I think about these things, I just don’t know where to start. But that’s the important thing to do: start. And keep it going from there.
Maybe you should go and ask some friends if they want to do it with you. Ask them to make their lists with you, and then save up for a while. And, when everybody has the time, you can all go out and do your things: together. Don’t let anyone put you down for what your trying to do, YOU need this and if they don’t understand, then that’s their problem.
Okay? Good luck from California!
-Jessica
Comment by Jessica — June 1, 2008 @ 3:39 pm
Greetings,
I don’t think I can say anything that hasn’t already been said, but keep your head up jimmy and go for whatever you want in life at full force and dont look back. Life will have its ups and downs, sometimes you just gotta go along for the ride and take it in stride. A way i’ve always looked at life is, how are you to truly know your high points in life if you’ve never experienced your lows. If you don’t have goals, it’s never too late, if there’s a will there’s a way! You obviously have strong will, so I have faith in your abilities to accomplish anything you set your mind to.
As for ‘Buried Life’, I really admire the vibe you’re sending off, it’s a great thing you’re doing and It’s definitely something that’s lacking in todays society. It’s just great to come across and find a group such as yourselves taking the bull by the horns and helping yourselves while reaching out to others. Good luck on your 2008 journey, you’re doing a beautiful thing.
-Allen
Comment by Allen — June 1, 2008 @ 5:28 pm
Jimmy,
Anxiety, as awful as it is, just means that somewhere you believe something that isn’t true. Try http://www.thework.com.
The material you need is all free - all it takes is a very little time, and an open mind to ask the questions. You’re in for a pleasant surprise. And watch how those goals become a breeze.
And guys? You are AWESOME! Best wishes from New Zealand.
Comment by Steph — June 1, 2008 @ 11:23 pm
Dear Jimmy,
I know about hell, I have been there. I spent 4 years in my room…alone..I couldn’t stand tv, ate little food, no conversation, nothing. I was a shattered soul waiting to die.
You say you have hope and faith…this is good, because I even lost my faith.
Jimmy, I am not some psycho religous freak…but I got a real live miracle…literally a light switch came on and I was OK…I am now “alive”.
I got my help from God.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFfG9QUbEqM
Comment by Jamie — June 2, 2008 @ 12:13 am
I first learned of ‘The Buried Life’ through an article in Brass Magazine. I think what you four are doing is not only inspirational for others, but also adventurous and daring. I commend the four of you for taking the bold initiative to live your lives to the fullest whilst inspiring others to do the same. I have a mental checklist in my mind, which I started back in high school. I have been fortunate enough to check a few off the list, but there are many left to accomplish. It would be great to see you guys in person in Atlanta. Certainly, one of your life goals on the proverbial list is to visit *the* Coca-Cola museum or climb Stone Mountain, lol. But seriously…visit Atlanta.
For Jimmy, I too suffer from anxiety. I have suffered from it on some level since childhood, and yes, I have had panic attacks as well. The thing is, very few people know this about me, and I find that the ones that do are very surprised. I have learned to channel this anxiety into something I love to do, well two things really: art and exercise (cross training and yoga). It’s a great release both creatively and physically. As for ‘busting out’ into life…you do this by simply living and never, I mean NEVER allow anything to hold you back. You will fail. A person who has never failed, has never lived. Behind every successful person, is a string of failures. Failures are the stepping stones to success. You will overcome your anxiety, and when you do, you will look back and see how this anxiety served as a stairway to your personal success. Please watch this short clip that I recently came across. It shows how stubborn perserverence is truly a virtue.
Comment by Shann — June 2, 2008 @ 12:40 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6hz_s2XIAU
Comment by Shann — June 2, 2008 @ 12:43 am
Jimmy,
I was like that for a good part of my life as well. In fact most of my friends and I suffered from low self esteem and anxiety. The important part is friends to me. We help each other though tough times and I’ve literally been saved and save friends lives before. 90% of my friends are extreme nerds, and very proud of it. We’re the kinds of people who sit around and talk physics for hours, watch anime, and play Dungeons and Dragons every chance we get.
I can’t tell you how much those people have boosted my confidence in myself. In 2006 I ran for two office positions in my some of my high school’s clubs( 3D animation and computer culture) and in 2007 I founded my schools first Roleplaying Game club, which was massive(around 20 members the first week and 45 by years end). It drew all the nerds out of the woodworks and into our family. I couldn’t have done it without my friends at the time. I graduated that year and life is looking very up.
My suggestion based on my life is, no matter what you like to do, find people that share your passion and people you can help and can help you. Who knows, maybe you’ll find some friends to travel the U.S. with and do fun things. Its always possible.
Comment by Andrew — June 2, 2008 @ 2:40 am
Line from Shawshank Redemption applies to you Jimmy….
Get busy Living or get busy Dying. Look at the people who you ask for help from and you might well find it! As for the finances…I am 4 Stadiums away from my goal of having every current Stadium for Major league Baseball and have been to a game at every Baseball Town but one(Denver next Spring!). I deliver pizza for a living and trust me, the pay stinks. I do not tell you this to toot a horn or something, just that more is possible than most people think can be done with little money.
Comment by Marc — June 2, 2008 @ 3:25 am
This is a really cool thing you guys have got going here. As I read through all of this, I keep asking myself if you have “Accept Christ as my Savior” on that list? You guys demonstrate how much we as human beings can do on our own. But it is when Jimmy’s questions come up that the hang in their, look at all the good you have, etc., etc., that the answers get tough. I am afraid that Jimmy is very much at the bottom and his was an effort to get help but in a way, he’s just been told to do the same thing he’s always tried to do on his own, which has probably gotten him where he is today. Jimmy, if you read this, man, turn to Christ, genuinely rely on Him, and I promise you, he will light your path. I can’t tell you what that will LOOK like, but He will light your path in ways you can’t imagine! Even in the hard stuff you’re facing, he will undergird you! To help you with this, find a solid, Bible believing church that unapologetically preaches the Word of God, and you will be taking a step in the right direction. It is something we all need to do. No matter how much we accomplish, or mark off our list, it won’t matter when we die. Maybe we should be asking “What am I going to be doing AFTER I die?” I’m going to be in Heaven! What about you? Join me, please!
Comment by Allison — June 2, 2008 @ 1:25 pm
wow this stuff is amazing.. it truly shows you that life is amazing even when you are going through a hard time.I totaly randomly stumbled on all of this tonight . Ive been suffering from some very similar issues over the past few weeks and because of a lack of money stopped taking my anxiety meds. but Ill tell you what it has all made me so much stronger and so much more grateful for what I do have in my life as I know it will you. My mom always said what doesnt kill us will make us stronger and aint that the truth. This is great stuff and even though Im up late I dont feel the need to sleep in (and hide)tommorow..thanks to all of you.
Comment by kim — June 3, 2008 @ 5:11 am
thanks for all the feedback to everyone! im reading and rereading the advice and inspirational thoughts! FROM THE BOTOOM OF MY HEART and the deepest part of my spirt A BIG HUG AND THANK YOU.
p.s. someone emailed me and i acedently delated it,(before i read it) who ever u are. please resend it .
THANKS AGIN
ambientpm@yahoo.com
Comment by Jimmy from TEXAS — June 3, 2008 @ 5:54 pm
Bless your heart for being open and sharing your feelings with so many others. You are brave and you are real, and I know in my heart you will be OK. I will add you to my Love list, and send prayers of hope to you! Thank you for you.
Jan
Comment by Jan — June 3, 2008 @ 11:15 pm
Dear Jimmy,
WOW, I am soooo impressed with how brave you are. You have a VERY strong heart. You picked the prefect “Crew” to send your S.O.S to. You should be proud of yourself for admitting to you condition, that is the first step to get help….you are starting a new journey. Please remember everyone has good days and bad days. Do not be to hard on yourself when you have a bad day. You are a good person and really that is all that matters. I feel better when I help other people, maybe you could do a “Secret Pal” suprise for someone you care about.
I live in Idaho, feel free to email me when ever you like. I will answer your emails!
moosemayham@cox.net
Good Luck!
Comment by Trudy — June 4, 2008 @ 1:01 pm
Jimmy and everyone else,
The only things worth having in life are happiness and love, nither of which can be bought with money. Never let anything hold you back from fulfilling your dreams.
God Bless
Comment by Aaron — June 8, 2008 @ 4:46 am
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face in marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
Theodore Roosevelt
Comment by Aaron — June 8, 2008 @ 5:39 am
fun stuff to do in idaho…
You must put a lot of work into blogging this much!…
Trackback by fun stuff to do in idaho — June 30, 2008 @ 5:12 am