Hard way, but made it. Born lower middle class USA. Awesome mom and deadbeat dad divorced when I was 3. Started working at 11 for spending money. Did well in school and sports. Couldn't afford a car or college. Finally bought a motorcycle at 18. My first car at 23. Ultimately secured a great job and enjoyed a 35 awesome year career. Was living here in Thailand for 25 years (month on, month off) and retired 4 years ago at 59. Had a 10 year Thai gf who was raped & murdered in our new house which we built together in Kanchanaburi. Surrounded by mountains and across from a lake. We had a Honda Wave, Toyota Fortuner and dogs & cats. Had just retired and struggling to get back home at the beginning of Covidiocy. She was brutally murdered in our house 1 month prior to my return. She was 33.
Somehow I'm still here, tho has not been easy these past 3.5 years and many times considered "checking out". Unexpectedly met a girl a year ago who saved my sanity and probably my life. We are happily moving forward in Jomtien.
Not looking for sympathy, just sharing my story. It's sanative. Life can go on and (usually) does.