Jared Padalecki made an appearance at Comic-Con in San Diego last weekend, where he cracked hilarious jokes [1] and showed his love for Jensen Ackles [2]. One of the sweetest parts of the event, though, came after the fact, when Jared wrote a Facebook post [3] about his humbling experience with his fans. It all ties into his "Just Keep Fighting" campaign [4] and his personal battle with depression, which he opened up about after taking a much-needed break from the spotlight [5]. To honor Jared's efforts to inspire those who are struggling, we collected a small sample of his most inspirational quotes.
- "When life beats you down, NEVER give up [6]."
- "On New Year's Eve, my dear friend lost his battle with depression . . . Though he wasn't the first friend I've lost to suicide, I sure hope he's the last. I wish I had the chance to go back and tell them what they meant to me. I wish I had the chance to beg them to seek help, to keep fighting. I wish they knew that they were surrounded by countless others who struggle on a daily basis."
- "I hope [the "Always Keep Fighting" campaign] helps people realize that they shouldn't be ashamed of what they are going through . . . I hope it helps people take pride in the fight that they have been fighting, and gives them a push to never give up or give in. I hope it helps inspire people to keep fighting. no matter how hard it is."
- "If you're out there and need help, please seek it. Be proud of your valiant day-to-day struggle. There is no shame in needing support."
- "There are some lucky folks out there who don't struggle with these issues, and I am truly happy for them. But, for those that do, it's important to approach each day with the mindset of, 'This might not be easy, but I am going to give it everything I've got [7].'"
- "There's no shame in having to fight every day [8], but fighting every day, and presumably, if you're still alive to hear these words or read this interview, then you are winning your war. You're here."
- "Don't underestimate your own strength [9]. To persevere. To make it through the most difficult of times. And, JUST as importantly, don't underestimate your ability to help someone ELSE during THEIR most difficult times. Sometimes all it takes is a kind word, or gesture, to help someone make it through their day."