Red Dead Redemption 2. I’ve always dealt with some pretty persistent demons, struggled to know myself for who I really am. This has led to some pretty self-destructive behaviours.

Before I became a father for the first time, I picked up red dead redemption 2 for the second time, I didn’t appreciate it the first time around.

Seeing Arthur Morgan find his place in the world, watching everything he ever knew and loved fall down around and watch him scramble to piece together his own conscience… I could just really relate.

When things happen to Arthur and he begins to atone, he begins to change, despite admitting in THAT scene that, “I guess, I’m afraid”, just broke down years of mental barriers.

It taught me that no matter how broken you may be, no matter what you’ve done, you can still give to those that deserve it. You’re still worth something.

Even now typing this, I can feel cathartic tears welling remembering the journey. I can’t explain to people how much that game changed me for the better without them thinking I’m mad, or silly.