We are very touched by the number and sincerity of your comments. Each one is read, considered and helps us to better appreciate you - our valued audience.

I have a feeling nobody will see this, but I’m very young and In highchool. I was in a terrible state, and was going to jump off of the local bridge. The day my breaking point was reached was when this video appeared into my recommended section for some reason. The realization that I’m not the only one with these struggles, and butler’s powerful messages saved me. I’m still confused on the topic of religion, and I’ve been identifying myself as an atheist, but this miraculous savior was not just a random act. Something reached down and helped me through a dark time. So all I’m trying to say is thank you and keep up the excellent work.

Very sorry to hear of your niece, Phil. I hope you find some peace in the midst of a trying time.

My mother took her life last year. Shortly after Christmas. I miss her every day and every single day I ask myself what I could've done differently. The guilt is horrible, the grief.. Yeah the grief is really hard to deal with.. Mom, I wish I could've been a light to you, but all you saw was darkness. I wish you could've seen the brilliant light of your own being at the darkest of moments. I hope you're at peace now.. I love you.

This is the kind of man I want to become.

I just want to express my love for this gentleman.

I went through cancer then kidney failure then when I was in hospital wife left me dog died and I was left homeless I know what being at rock bottom is but I came back from deep depression and made a success of my life This as only recent .👍👍 Never give up on life folks

After my gf cheated on me and left I lost everything. I lost my job, friends, and her family was the closest thing to a family I ever had. I attempted to commit suicide and lived, barely, and I was in the hospital for 2 weeks. In the hospital I had 2 coworkers that visited me every day, and that is when I realized how even someone like me, who had nothing and nobody, would be missed by someone.

I am so glad that 2 days ago I had the strength to stop myself from jumping out of my window by calling the ambulance by my self. I live alone, I have a very good social systhem, but at 6 o clock in the morning on a sunday, there was no one who could help me exept myself. To call a hotline or 911 took all my strength but now I am here and ready to fight my ptsd. To everyone who is fighting for his live: Don't be ashamed, be proud of your self, because you have the strength that most of the other people couldn't even emagine. God bless you all.

The compassion in his voice is profoundly moving. He gets it.

But Phil, those statements such as, "we are not our thoughts" have saved me many a night.

I watch this as I feel afraid and alone. I'm 27, dealing with an unknown medical issue which is slowly killing me. Each day the physical symptoms get worse and I've been begging the hospital to treat me. It feels as if I don't have much time left. I'm scared and alone. Listening to John gives me some comfort. It's terrifying to look death in the face at such a young age. I want John to know that listening to him makes me feel held and loved.

Dave once said suicide doesn’t stop the pain you’re only moving it and after hearing that on his album I realised I now live for others who don’t deserve the pain from my loss

Only those that bear the load can truly know the weight of it and sometimes, sadly, the weight is more than they can carry.

Another pearl in a world full of disbelief

"A permanent solution to a temporary problem..." How those words echo beyond what we can display time after time.

I do not believe in God, but this man, his kindness, his assurance, gives me tremendous comfort. I do suffer, but mostly in silence. Things will be ok.

“If I have any kind of answer, it’s taken me a long life to find it”. These words help me a lot. John’s presence and whole being is his answer.

How I would love to sit in that Church with John.. He calms me.

So many people deep down inside have so much anxiety and depression and most people never know it. I am one. My young son is another. We both suffer with anxiety and depression and only a close few know it. I guess my point is that being kind to your fellow man goes a long way. You have no idea what those people could be feeling on the inside.

You can see that the contemplation has effected him deeply by the resounding pauses he makes between speaking. You always feel as though John goes within himself to give an answer that is completely pure. Thank you for your honesty John. Thank you Phil for the efforts made towards such a relative and at times awkward subject.

John Butler is just an Eckhart Tolle's brother who hasn't become a millionaire because he doesn't have best-selling books. I love both, both of them are great guys with much to teach us. The world needs more people like this. Thanks!

I went through a really tough depression where I couldn't sleep, had no appetite for any joy and all my thoughts were of how bad my thoughts were. A constant feedback loop of negative thoughts about negative thoughts. A few years on and now I am healthy, happy and hopeful. Remember time heals all no matter how you feel now.

I think the 19-25 is pretty accurate. I'm 19 and never imagined I would've even thought of suicide, let alone try it. I had a period where I was terrified of myself and my own thoughts. I cut my neck (not deeply) in attempts but each time realising that I'm scared of blood and that I don't want to die. I actually hid knives that were visible to me to stop myself making a mistake. This all stems from social anxiety and awkwardness along with imposter syndrome. With all the social media stuff I'm supposed to keep up with these things make it pretty hard to do so. Just wish my fear of doing something embarrassing in social situations would not be so strong, it really sucks.

I must admit I didn't know who you were, never heard of you before, but my dear GOD Sir, you are blessed with a gift that cannot be described in the depth of truth embodied within your words. Your exquisite tenderness, emanates through you, and all around you..... right into my heart and soul; a connection, I have never experienced in my 62 years of life. Oh, if only there were more like you; what a beautiful world we would have. Thank you so much. WOW!

I don't think "I am not my thoughts" worked for me in deep depression/despair either. Awareness seems so contracted around the painful feelings/thoughts that that does not seem real. So often people who commit suicide are judged as "selfish." I find that to lack compassion and insight. Yes, there's a spiritual and emotional component to depression, but there are also neural and chemical changes that can make thinking very distorted. In other words, the person in "sick". Very, very sick. Peace be upon that young woman.

Having been diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder I have had my share of unreasonable pain and disconnect driven by a mind that will not stop worrying about the worst. It leads to an isolation of the mind. Feelings of isolation in society, self and spiritually is definitely a factor in these thoughts and inclinations to end the pain. It's seems that I have been left stuck in a world of desperately wanting to live yet half wanting to die and end the pain. Fortunately thanks to John I have been able to focus my energies on the stillness and spirit. I had not really heard of the stillness before and initially did not have a deep understanding but after having listened to you and your thoughts I had a realization of the heart while watching the stars and reflecting on a beach in Alaska. The stillness of the mountains, the waves and the incredible vastness above was absolutely deafening, and it's everywhere now. Now I know exactly what you mean about stillness and spirit and have something to strive for and help heal my negative energies with. Since then I haven't really had any thoughts about ending it all. It's hard to pin down with words what happened, to really describe it, as it seems to have been a realization of heart and not just mind itself. John's wisdom in these videos was direction changing and helped deliver me to that moment. I'd like to let you know, both John and Phil, that you are changing lives with your videos and to thank you.

This past year has been especially rough. I appreciate that Phil and John spoke about this subject. Indeed the 19-25 age range is very tough for young men in particular these days.

i wanted to die when the father of my three children and i were separating. i had a 'spiritual awakening' that i had succeeded and my three precious children were crying and i was unable to comfort them. it was so powerful and i vowed not to play with such thoughts in honor of my LOVE for those precious children.

Of the many channels I'm subscribed to, Spiritual Unfoldment with John Butler is the only one for which I clicked the notification bell.

In this world, sometimes it can be incredibly difficult to carry on when all the baggage you're carrying with you is mounted atop your shoulders. People will tend not to be kind. The most important thing to remind yourself of is that the top of the mountain is really just a slide once you've reached the peak of the precipice. Try to put yourself there. Visualize it and immerse yourself in that sheer sense of awe. Then all that's left to do is get there. Find the path that you feel your feet should follow. I wish you all well in your endeavour. I'll see you at the bottom of the other side. Don't forget to have fun, my many friends abroad. Love, honor, and peace to you. Enjoy.

When I heard him say on another video, regarding depression, sometimes all you can do is open the window and get some air. I knew then he got it. “The curtains that close around one “ in times of depression create utter despair, total isolation and hopelessness. You are locked away in a dark secluded place where no one can reach you and you cannot reach others. The loneliness and descent into hell is indescribable. What I can only describe as the tsunami of painful emotions and physical effects of depression are quite literally agony. It is no wonder that people elect to kill themselves due to the intensity of psychological, emotional and spiritual pain in the same way that some individuals choose assisted suicide in cases of intractable physical suffering such as terminal cancer. My soul recognises his suffering and all the work he has done in Spirit. He speaks to me as someone who is wise and good , treading the paths of old, a Soul friend for all of us fighting not to let our darkness speak to us. Thank you John Butler Your honesty and authenticity of spirit in this world is helping to light up the most desolate of landscapes.

I truly appreciate the seriousness and sincerity in this video. And Phil, I'm deeply sorry for your families loss. I lost a brother to suicide and the good Lord knows I've had to grapple with my own depression in this life. God Bless you both.

John is such a kind soul. Also to the other man, I am so sorry about your niece my friend.

Recently I have been struggling with thoughts of suicide and although I’m not sure if this video helped any. It is nice to hear someone talk about it in a way others can understand.

I’m sorry about that Paul. She will be missed

How can anyone dislike this? John Butler is a truly wholesome and gentle man. So sweet!

the world needs to listen to john.. 🙌🏻🙌🏻

silence in this take, speaks more than words

I'm glad I'm not alone friends

Wow what a timing.. My best friend tried to take his own life 2 days ago but he miraculously survived 2 attempts. It’s all I’ve been able to think about the past couple of days. Thank you for adressing this important matter.

Well done for stepping up and addressing a major taboo subject in society. Passing 80 years of experience on to all of us. We need more strong men like John in our world 👍

Gosh if I knew someone with his energy and aura, I wouldn’t need to take any anti depressants for depression. He will be all I need but at least I have these videos. God bless this man.

maybe that's the point of realizing we're all "connected" as John has said before. Because Phil I don't know you and I don't think we'll ever meet on this Earth - yet my heart broke for you and your family. I hope you are all able to find some comfort. Suicide is so common and yet when it's done we just ignore the survivors in so many ways because we're afraid to ask the real questions. thank you both for bravely giving us this video to digest and think over

I’m among the many who have, and still do, fight an ongoing battle with depression, and the suicidal tendencies that come with that. Particularly, I suffer from seasonal depression, so I’m really not looking forward to this coming winter. But John’s words, as always, provide me with at least a little comfort, and remind me that there’s much more to life than this dark spell I’m currently experiencing. Thank you once again for an enlightening video 😊

Very frank and honest. Thank you John

I was a victim of suicide a lot of times. I’m glad I never went through it. It’s not worth the pain

I'm not a religious man, but I find you both to be genuinely decent people. A rare thing nowadays. Fair play to the pair of you and my respects

John's idea of finding peace in nature is so powerful, thank you so much for this video.

Oh Phil, I am so very sorry for your loss... My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family....

raw and authentic emotions. Thx for this tough but interesting take

Thank you both for handling a sensitive topic so sensitively and helpfully. I could watch John sit in silence for an hour as a sort of group meditation. I find his presence very calming.

I wish i could just have hours and hours of conversation with john and it can be literally about anything 😩☺

In my life, "hell is other people" as per Sartre, in particular the sick and insane family from which I came, and by which I continue to be plagued.

God bless this channel for all the peace you give

John's expression was especially touching when explaining his experience with the "young man" and his friend, the mother. I think the especially-contemplative, in temperament and thought, are especially-vulnerable to intense thought which is depression, in the negative direction, of course. My mother took her life when I was very young - kindergarten age, in fact - and it devastated me and my two brothers. I can say without reservation, we never fully recovered. That said, it has not kept me away from "the ledge" , the same desire to "end it all". Now, at the age of 61, without spouse, partner, children ... it seems ever more pressing. I don't know that "Why?" is the right question. The answer is simple - "Being alive is too painful".

John, sometimes there isn't an answer no matter how long we live. I buried my beautiful 19 year old daughter 15 years ago. It was not from suicide but I'll never be the same. That's just the way it is. Phil, I'm so sorry for your terrible loss.

Condolences, sir. My heart goes to all affected by this loss.

“Deep questions, get us into deep water” best quote ive ever heard

Thank you Phil for holding the silence for John so gracefully, so lovingly in these emotionally intense, fragile moments, enveloping his whole being in the protection of compassionate, patient human attention. I can hear the silence within you resonating with the silence in John, a resonance made possible by the blessed wordless attention you are giving so sensitively when that’s what’s most needed. ... and when it’s time to dissolve the silence, you find the most appropriate words. Thank you.

So sorry to hear about the passing of your neice Phil. Thank you for bravely taking on this most sensitive of subjects

So sorry for you loss Phil. Another wonderful perspective from John.

My beautiful son took his life and this message spoke to and eased my heart. Thank you. As I have sat with the why’s and what if’s I too realized my son just felt way too much for a person so young. I so wish he could have realized that this would pass. Then again on some level I’m glad he has found his way home and I pray that he has found peace. This tragedy has taught me so much and I am trying to shine my light humbled and recognizing how little I truly understand.

Nothing more southing than Mr. Butler's silences. The proof of the pudding... Thank you both.

I find myself close to tears, of both sadness and joy, every time I listen to John. Phil, you are an excellent interviewer - your questions are always pertinent and a wonderful complement to John's insights. And, I have to say that, for me, there are deep, deep insights in his silences. I'm so sorry for your painful loss, Phil. Thank you, both 🙏

I'm sorry to hear about ur niece I know the feeling of how hard life can get I'm having a tough time right now too...😢

That space and silence between the words. How comforting❤ Thank you, John for being here and now with us. Just lost my Father a few days ago. Same smile and same pauses when he spoke and listened to us. I am not sure how to keep going without him❤

This was the most wonderful conversation I have ever had the privilege of listening to. What a blessing.

Thank you for sharing this video. It has been immensely helpful.

Thank you for sharing your experience, I am sure many people will relate.

Thankyou for allowing the silent pauses. They’re absolutely essential for reflecting on what he just said.

So so sorry for you loss Phil. Incredibly difficult topic to discuss, but thank you both for addressing this. Best wishes.

Love this man , he speaks from his whole heart amen🕊

Thank you so much for this video and discussion. My thoughts are with you and your family Phil.

I found speaking to a medium or asking God for a sign of hope was helpful for me. I also found thinking about my future family was also a great motive “I’m going to keep pushing through for my Wife and kids.”

Love it, thank you for taking the time to make these videos, life and the world is a difficult place populated by imperfect creatures, knowing this can help us all navigate our lives better .

Thank you so much for everything your existence on this earth is so appreciated by us all! Youre truly amazing and im so sorry to hear about your niece, sending peace, love and light

John Butler has such an amazing aura ❤️ I love it ❤️

I have lost a school colleage and a woman, who was like a second mom to me, to suicide. To this day, I still don´t comprehend their individual reasons, but I have learned to live with the loss. Thank you John, for this very comforting video.

The best thing our dear Mr. Butler can gift to us is to sit with us in silence. I've never appreciated it more.

John i am a 31 year old woman i have never meditated or anything like that until i found you on youtube! I lay here in my bed every single night next to my husband and i do stuggle to sleep with one thing or another anyway you and phil words fail me on how much your voice is so relaxing to me I literally wake up looking forward to going to bed because of you both thankyou thankyou so much to the both of you all of my love from Amy in Liverpool xxx

I'm sorry to hear about your niece Phil. I wish you wellness in this time of grief.

During a very hard time in my life, the compassion of this gentleman got me into contact with something deeper. It's really helping me. Thank you.

This is the way we all need to speak,slowly not rushing in. You remind me of native American elders. Beautiful message meditation is deep medicine for our spirits

When Robin Williams took his own life. Billy Connolly knew he was saying goodbye to him (crucially he did not know this at the time) but he has said, since, he wouldn't have stopped him. To me this shows a profound understanding and love to what his friend wanted and needed and a deep respect and deep connection to his friend and allowing him the space he needed to do what he needed to do to have peace.

This is what we should be doing, expressing and coming together, this gentleman is a beacon, use him if yu need to because that's what he is talking for.

I think this guy is probably the best example of the love of Jesus I've even seen. I'm not a church but and don't go to church but I love God and feel deeply so it's easy to feel good listening to this lovely man. I aspire to be so lovely like this man❤

I feel very sorry for your and your families loss Phil. It takes great inner strength and will to air such a subject on KZfaq. Since I watch the videos chronological from bottom to top this is now 2 years ago it happened. Hope you and the family found some peace meanwhile 🙏 I'm pretty sure John was of great support in these difficult times.

I am currently going thru a bad enough depression episode i called the crisis line (the same day this video was posted). So i was blown when i dropped my phone and opened the YT app amd this was at the top of recommended. Im still struggling to hold on and i couldnt watch at this time but i look forward to it when i come back in a better and open mindset to take it in.

A timely message! God bless!

There are no words. Deep bows of compassion and gratitude to you both. Thank you 🙏🏻

I am so sorry for the loss of your niece phil I truly am! I hope you and your family find peace again with all of my love from Amy in Liverpool xxx

This video has definitely added some perspective for me. For years I’ve struggled quietly from depression and anxiety mostly. I went through 14 years of being bullied about my appearance, my weight, and sometimes just my personality by not only my peers in school but my family as well. The first time I thought about suicide was when I was 8 years old. I’ve thought about it every year since then up until this point, I’m 23. I’ve always made it my mission to make everyone around me happy, or try to get them to like me. I thought the more I did the more they would see me as a person. I’ve carried this weight of abuse, pain, and loneliness for so long; I quietly tucked it all in the deepest part of myself and tried to ignore it. This year in particular it seems all of those feelings have matured and aged and have felt like a weight. The things I desperately tried to never feel all have come rushing back. I feel so worthless and that the only way I’ll know peace is by taking my own life. I always understood that some of my family, and some friends I managed to have would feel sad and grieve me being gone but apart of me wants to leave them so I can finally have some peace. So for once I don’t have to carry this weight, these feelings, this hurt.. Im I can just be. I’m willing to pay the price if it means I can just feel alive inside. Even if it’s for a moment that’s something I would do anything for. I feel like I’m better off gone. I’ve always wondered why I spent so much of my life not wanting to be alive even at a young age. It makes me think that I should just go on with it finally, and see what else is in store. I say all this not to garner sympathy from anyone but I guess to share.

Speaking as someone who has been down this path. I know the problem seems like forever but suicide really isn't the option. Failing that attempt is the biggest blessing of my life. I've seen so much more now. I was glad to hear this subject talked about like this. Thank you for these videos and for everyone out there. Stay strong. It's a very hard fight but you can do this.

I’m so glad I watched this, I want to keep going. I find comfort in your words, thank you x

this video was made during one of my deepest moments in my life, so far, as i am still young. im really tired, so i can't say much, but keep doing what you're doing. you might not realise it but you're saving lives with your videos. literally and spiritually. ❤️

My mother attempted to take her own life in front of me. Luckily I stopped her just in time. The feeling of your own mother begging you to let her die is something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. She's been through so much and I just hope she gets better soon. And to that unknown girl that took her life in front of me, may you pluck the strings of your soul as you dance through the ethereal cosmos for eternity. Sometimes it can seem like death can follow you around. It's very disturbing sometimes. This life. Very disturbing indeed, but very beautiful still.

I feel like John is happy that he can express his own opinions on stuff with someone else

What a beautiful man! What a beautiful soul :) This was uploaded on my birthday, Thank you so much for this

😢 very sad and I’m sorry to anyone and everyone who has gone through this. That being said, I’m glad I found this channel because I enjoy these videos 💐