Buddy, I'll be honest. It's you. Watching you grow up, seeing you do your best to keep going even in the hardest of times, well, it keeps me going too.

We ain't born to do everything ourselves, kid. Don't realize most of the time, but we depend on having someone to share the moments with. Be they for better or worse.

Now I'm not telling you to get a kid of your own, though that is the conclusion most people come to naturally. Which is probably why so many unhappy marriages think a pregnancy will solve every problem... It won't.

Anyway, I just want you to know that when the going gets tough, it becomes less about loving yourself and more about having someone or something you love more.
I mean, every time you've looked at me and thought "he's way too into this" it's because I was. Whenever my own disappointment with myself hits, I know I'll be alright because I have happiness to fill the void with. And you're a very big piece of happiness!

Listen kid. It might seem cliche to say this, but life isn't perfect. There will always be challenges ahead and you will more or less always want to do better. There's no simple solution to this and i can't give you a better answer.
For me, love works. I kept with it and it kept with me. I know it won't last forever and yet I cherish every moment of happiness it's given me and will keep giving me. And every time I come face to face with my regrets, though they weaken my resolve, it's been love that got me through it every time.
Who knows? It might do the same for you.

PS: I want a grandkid. Eventually.