I am doing all I can to help. - Kevin

Kevin was a respectable man. He was known to be fearless and would stand up for injustices he saw on the streets and at work.

With his colleagues, he was generous with his time, words, and help. With his relatives and family, he went out of his way to be present. Sometimes he would travel over an hour at the drop of a phone call to tend to their needs.

With his muscular appearance and his unapologetic speaking style, he appeared strong and invincible.

What was not obvious to the untrained eye was that Kevin was sensitive to perceived accusations that he was not enough. That he wasn't doing enough. That he wasn't good enough.

His closest ones learned, consciously and unconsciously, to move him to act through expressing distress and helplessness. Disappointment. Veiled criticisms. "I thought you would be here for me." "I guess I was wrong about you."

They lavished him with praise and love when he availed his time, energy, and resources. "You're amazing, Kevin. What would we do without you?"

Although he was exhausted, he did his best to fulfil everyone's expectations. He pushed himself harder. Slept less. Gave more.

But no matter how hard he tried, his efforts were never enough to meet the unending needs. There was always another crisis. Another call. Another person who needed him.

In his frustrations, he would sometimes erupt in intense anger. Vulgarities would fly. His voice would boom, filling the room with a rage that scared those around him into silence.

Afterwards, the guilt would settle in. He would apologise. Promise to do better. And the cycle would begin again.

Kevin, the strong one. Kevin, the helper.

Kevin, who was slowly burning out from the inside.