I'm real sorry for the loss of your friends Tony. In my 57 years I've lost only one to suicide & that was 35 years ago. Still saddens me when I think about her. I am with you on the optimism. I draw a parallel between motorcycle riding & life in general. The state of negativity that people get to by focusing on what they perceive as bad is very similar to target fixation while riding. Keep focusing on the bad & you crash, focus on the good & you get through the corner unscathed. Then there's that chemical imbalance in the brain thing known as clinical depression. I went through this (self assessment, not diagnosed by professionals) when I was 21 & but by the grace of the universe I started long distance running & readjusted my brain chemistry. Things aren't so dire now, but Thanks Pauly for reminding me of what I have to get back to. Been on the elliptical but can't wait till spring. I'll be back out on the Cannondale when the weather breaks (want but don't need new wheels). Furthermore; I think that fast motorbike rides through the twisties helps my mental state immensely.