30 F
Clarksville
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
HomeCommentaryMy Two Cents: National motorcycle magazine publishes my story of depression

My Two Cents: National motorcycle magazine publishes my story of depression

My Two-Cents with Hank BonecutterClarksville, TN – Earlier this year, I shared a very personal story of how I managed to work my way out of a real struggle with depression.  It was a challenge to put myself out there like that, but I felt it was too important not to share.

You can read the story here:  My Two Cents: How a Motorcycle pulled me out of Depression

American Motorcyclist
American Motorcyclist Magazine

Since I had led a very public life as a member of the broadcast media, and as a freelance writer, I decided it was important for me to share this story, because as I’ve since learned, there are many people like me who have, or are STILL caught in the grips of this condition. 

It was a powerful yet cathartic moment for me, and it had to be done. 

Since I published this story, I have had so many people reach out to me to tell me that the story gave them hope and encouragement.  I’ve had people stop me in public to express their surprise that I would have experienced that. 

“I just never thought you of all people could go through that” was a common response.  “I’ve listened to you on the radio for years and years and I would have never thought you could go through that.  You’ve always been so funny and upbeat.”

The struggle is real.

When I bought a motorcycle and discovered what so many millions of people enjoy each and every day, I became a member of the American Motorcycle Association. They publish a monthly magazine, American Motorcyclist, distributed to thousands of bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts.  The magazine is a rich resource of motorcycle news, events, legislation, and much more.  They were interested in featuring my story in their publication.

Hank Bonecutter and his Harley
Hank Bonecutter and his Harley

It will be published in the May 2017 issue.

It’s my hope and prayer that others who suffer from this debilitating condition will understand that there is light at the end of the tunnel.  All is not lost.  The world is not a hopeless wasteland.  There is something for you to do.  There’s a passion waiting to wrap it’s arms around you.  A purpose for your life.  Something that excited you and makes you get up each and every day.

For me, it was becoming a motorcycle enthusiast.  The thrill of the ride.  The excitement of the journey you’ve created.  Learning the machine and becoming one with it.  If I manage to help ONE person with my story, then it’s worth it.  Depression can kill. 

What makes it so difficult is that your friends and family can’t really tell what you’re going through.  And even if they did, they don’t know what to do.  So i just say this.  If you’re struggling, pick something you enjoy and go do it.  I don’t care if it’s working in your garden, taking a long walk everyday, playing golf, whatever it takes for you to get up and get out of the house and participate in LIFE!

I thank the people of the AMA, and American Motorcyclist magazine for including me and my story in their publication.  It’s my hope that more and more people will see that you can work your way through this condition.  It’s not the end of the world. 

I was lucky.  I found a motorcycle.

Hank Bonecutter
Hank Bonecutterhttp://www.clarksvillesmotorcycle.com/
Hank Bonecutter is a retired broadcaster and media consultant based in Clarksville, Tennessee. His career includes stints at WKDA/WKDF and WKQB Rock 106FM, WLAC-AM in Nashville. He concluded his career as owner/talk show host at WJZM-AM in Clarksville. Currently the President of Bonehead Promotions, he's an advertising consultant and media strategist. An avid motorcyclist, Hank blogs about his travels exclusively at www.clarksvillemotorcycle.com and www.clarksvilleonline.com You can follow Hank on on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/dodgintheroadkill/, on Twitter at https://twitter.com/?lang=en, and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dodgetheroadkill/?hl=en  
RELATED ARTICLES

Latest Articles