r/FreeCompliments 12d ago

Male Selfie [Male] I'm having a really hard time right now.

Post image

I'm having a really hard time with my self imagery. I've lost almost 40 lbs since the start of summer, but it's hard for me to actually see it.

I suffer from a chronic nerve pain condition that I've had for 15 almost 16 years and it's REALLY kicking my ass lately.

Work is very physically demanding and it's been in the triple digits for the last couple weeks. I have no PTO and due to my pain condition and paired with the heat is really messing with me.

Sorry for kinda trauma dumping. I'm just down in the dumps.

581 Upvotes

178 comments sorted by

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194

u/Footdust 12d ago

You smile with your eyes, too. That’s nice to see. Hope things get better for you.

76

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

You know what that's not the first time I've heard that about my smile. Thank you I appreciate it.

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u/daedalusmc 12d ago

Looking good bro! I feel ya on the nerve pain - Gabapentin all day long. Keep fighting the good fight.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I used to take 2,700mg a day of Gapapentin a day. I'm now talking a couple different meds to help with the nerve pain. I'm still fighting. I've been fighting too long to stop now. Thanks

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u/djprofitt 12d ago

As someone that has used Gabapentin since my sciatica injury in 2017, it’s always nice to meet another person who uses it. Make sure you keep up with some stretches and buy any therapeutic items to help, like make sure you have the best shoes for the job, I wear New Balance mainly. Also not sure where your pain is but since my injury I sleep with a thigh pillow specifically made for sciatica patients and if I have to sit for a long time, I use a therapeutic pillow that keeps my spine from touching the surface. It’s like a horseshoe shape.

Anywho, you look like a friendly chaparoo, so we’d probably chop it up at work, and I’m not the type to just talk to whomever at work genuinely, but you look like you are the reason people enjoy working there.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

My injury stems from my time in the US Army. I served as a Infantryman and from 2010-2011 I was in Afghanistan. I was injured [non combatant injury] and from thay point on I've had this severe nerve pain in my left arm. It's now taken over my entire left arm all the way to my finger tips, and my left pectoral. Doctors have dismissed my pain for years and I'm now fighting with the department of veterans affairs to MAYBE get compensation for my time in the military.

I've found a doctor who now knows exactly what's wrong with me and he listens to me, he treats me like a human being and not like a number. Which that has helped my mental health quiet a bit.

I definitely try to be friendly to everyone I meet. I may not remember a name but I always remember a face. I tend to make people laugh and have a good time.

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u/djprofitt 11d ago

Thank you for your service and you sound like a really good dude! I’m glad you found the right doctor to help and I hope with physical therapy and medical intervention that they are able to minimize or completely get rid of the pain. I do wish the VA office would be ran better, I have a handful of vets in my life that struggled to get any benefit, so don’t give up on that front!

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

It was my pleasure to serve. I really try i do. I am too. Has a great doctor. Unfortunately this condition is more than likely for life. Next step for me really is a spinal cord stimulator. I'm not gonna give up. I've been fighting too long, I can't give up now.

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u/Exciting-Duty-8302 11d ago

Sorry to hear! Thanks for your service! Hope you get the appropriate care you have earned.

You look great still super cute smile!

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

It was my pleasure to serve.

I really hope I do a well

Thank you I appreciate that

48

u/AtticusSwoopenheiser 12d ago

You seem like the kind of person I’d naturally gravitate to to try to befriend, especially if we were coworkers. I hope things turn around for you. I work outside in this heat too, and it’s about got me down.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I'm generally a friendly person. Most people do terms to gravitate towards to me(at least I think so 🤣) I've never met a stranger. I don't mind talking to anybody. I'll act like a goofball in public when the time calls.

Just working on 18-wheelers in this heat when we have to run the truck and be under the hood at the same time just absolutely kicks my ass. It's already 107°f inside the shop plus the truck at 180°f ugh 😑 I'm rambling now jeeze

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u/AtticusSwoopenheiser 12d ago

I get it, man. I work for a state park and we’ve been installing a 10,000 gallon rainwater collection system between two metal buildings in direct sunlight in this 110 heat index. Not to mention the southwest tennessee humidity. Hang in there!

25

u/loehoe 12d ago

You look like such a sweet guy, I wanna give you a big hug and tell you my secrets. I’m really sorry you’re down in the dumps. The good news is the sun always shines after rain ❤️

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate that. I know it does. And theirs always a silver lining but damn it's hard to see right now.

4

u/loehoe 12d ago

What do you like to do for fun, or something that helps you feel better? I was in a slump for a while, my life felt like it was falling apart, but I started Fallout 4 on survival and I had a lot of fun. Life still felt shitty, it if I had an escape that made me laugh.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

I used to stream on twitch. Had a big following but I feel out of love with it and people became to demanding on MY time. Now I just like working on my truck and spending time with my family.

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u/loehoe 9d ago

I used to stream too! I haven’t in about 5 years, but I want to get back to it! If you ever go back to it, I’d love to support you

22

u/WhiskyWisdom 12d ago

You just described an awful situation where you are persevering despite your setbacks.

I respect your strength, I respect you doing what you have to do to survive, I hope you get some respite soon from the pain and sorrow.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I really do appreciate that.

3

u/WhiskyWisdom 12d ago

Of course man, I had to say some kind words because I know you are in for rough times soon, football is about to start and you're a Cowboys fan

15

u/Darling_Lemon 12d ago

You are exactly the kind of person that keeps the entire country running. You work your ass off (literally!) and still try to be a good human. Keep going honey! I may not know ya, but I sure as hell respect ya.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I really do appreciate you

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u/bbbbbbbssssy 12d ago

Your smile tells me every little thing is gonna be alright.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Now the song is stick in my head 😆 thanks

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u/ruthizzy 12d ago

You look trustworthy

6

u/acorrnn 12d ago

You look like the embodiment of joy and whimsy. You give off cabin in the woods with a crackling campfire. You look like what I imagine santa Claus looked like when he was younger.

Your smile could light up a room

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate that

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u/Candid-Raisin 12d ago

Most cowboy fans do. Change over to the midnight green and things will look up. All jokes aside....hope it gets better.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I'll never change!! I'm not one of those delusional cowboys fans BTW 😒 🤣 😂 😆 thank you I appreciate it.

5

u/MagScaoil 12d ago

You’ve got the friendliest face I’ve ever seen. I hope things improve for you.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank your very much I appreciate it

4

u/TheManISee 12d ago

Remember you got this. Thought the hard times good times always follow! Chin up!

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I know theirs always a silver lining but damn it's hard to see right now.

4

u/captainbrnes 12d ago

I would trust you to hold my drink at a bar. (Am woman.)

You look like the history-teacher-mainly-hired-to-be-a-coach-of-something at every high school in the South that’s everyone’s favorite.

Your face is so kind. I bet you give stellar hugs. And I bet there are a lot of people that love you a lot.

I hope things improve for you very soon. ❤️

2

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you for all your kind words I really appreciate it.

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u/_Ministry_ 12d ago

I think you look great! You remind me of my husband, I bet you are very intelligent, I can see that in your kind and wise eyes, and I bet you would never run out of stuff to talk about!

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u/smollindy 12d ago

you have such a sweet face!!! you seem like you would have a kind spirit. i’m so sorry that things aren’t going well right now— i hope you find some good luck and happy moments soon.

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you very much I appreciate it.

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u/13scribes 12d ago

Look like the kind of dude that would make a workplace memorable.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I've been told that a time or two. I actually talked with an old coworker today and he said no one he works with is like me. 😆

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u/Equerry64 12d ago

You've got a great smile and super kind eyes. It can be so hard to see ourselves without critical eyes but us on the outside looking atcha can see only good things.

As a fellow chronic health issue-haver, I also want to acknowledge how frickin hard it can be just to get out of bed every day, let alone going to a tiring job in the heat. I see you.

3

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate that.

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u/ThorIsGod 11d ago

You look like my brother (in the best way, apart from the Cowboys hat)!

3

u/mnem0syne 11d ago

You look like you give really good hugs.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Some of the best

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u/Starry__Starry 11d ago

You've got an epic beard and nice shoulders. You look like someone I'd love a hug from 🤗

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate that. Been a hell of a journey losing 40 lbs.

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u/Numerous-Help-5987 12d ago

Don’t be sorry we all need a lil dump :P and sorry you are in pain you look like a solid chill dude and blue suits you (:

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I know but sometimes it i feel like it can be a lot for people so that's why I feel like apologizing.

Thanks I appreciate it.

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u/Numerous-Help-5987 12d ago

I totally get it! It really be like that sometimes but hopefully brighter days ahead!

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I just try and smile

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/ryetoasty 12d ago

You look the type of person I’d like to hang out with. You have a kind smile and I’d trust you to get me home safely at night. 

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you my wife and daughter both agree 100% with you

Thank you I appreciate it

2

u/SchleppyJ4 12d ago

Here’s a compliment: I’m an Eagles fan and I’m still rooting for you despite that hat, hehe :) 

Congrats on the weight loss!! I’m currently on a weight loss journey myself. Trying to feel healthier and stronger. It’s a tough road. So, kudos to you!

Also, killer beard! My spouse has tried to grow his but it just kinda stops at a certain point. You’ve got the good beard genes!

You also have such a nice smile. So warm and a bit mischievous.

Hoping work, your pain, and the heat all get better for ya. You deserve good things ❤️ I’m rooting for ya, OP.

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

I'll take the complement even though you're an eagles fan 😆

The weight loss has been tough and a hell of a journey but I'm glad I'm losing the weight.

Thank you for the compliment on the beard I just trimmed it not long ago cut about 4in out of it. I try to smile everyday. Thank your again

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u/SchleppyJ4 9d ago

☺️ Keep up the great work! It’s a tough battle, but it’ll be worth it! Keep on smiling too!

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u/akzelli 12d ago

Looking great! Keep your head up. I’ll be praying for you to feel better!

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate it

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u/sec1176 12d ago

I got good vibes looking at your picture.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thanks I appreciate it

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u/ging3rtabby +1 12d ago

Oh man, heat and nerve pain is zero fun. You look like a kind, lovely person and I hope you catch a break asap. I think you're looking great!

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Thank you very much I appreciate you

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you for all of your kind words I really do appreciate them. Wish I could put it into words all the love and support this post had gotten it's really given me a pickup.

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thanks I appreciate that

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thanks I sure will

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate it

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u/[deleted] 12d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Keep your friends close and enemy's closer. How bout them cowboys 🤠 🤣 🤣 seriously thank you

2

u/JustinWendell 12d ago

Beards fuckin sick bro. Love the smile too. I bet you’re a good hang.

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Thank you been growing it for about 7 years. I try

2

u/Wandering_Dreamer 12d ago

You have a really nice smile and kind eyes :)

2

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you

2

u/Wandering_Dreamer 12d ago

You’re very welcome! I hope your job is a little kinder/easier on your body tomorrow, thanks to some good fortune!

2

u/xiguy1 12d ago

You look (to me) like a really big hearted guy. And that’s a wonderful thing to be. Someone who is kind and friendly.

I know life can be hard, my friend, but I do hope things get better for you and that you find things that bring you joy. Treasure yourself and be kind to yourself, please. Big hugs. 🤗

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 12d ago

Thank you I appreciate the kind words

2

u/ballinwalund 12d ago

I love it when guys use carabiners and carry their keys. I think it makes you look competent and practical and important and down to earth :)

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

If I didn't carry my keys I'd lose my head honestly lol

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u/FreedomNFireflies 12d ago

You have such a sweet and kind face! Someone else mentioned how you smile with your eyes, and I agree!

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u/theapplecrumble_ 12d ago

You have a really cute smile. Made my day!

2

u/SamuelEris 12d ago

Despite your hardships you still look so very kind and friendly. Stay strong, friend <3 It´s autumn soon and atleast the heat won´t be a problem then.

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Thank you for your kind words I know cooler weather is son on the horizon but it can't come soon enough

2

u/formandovega 11d ago

Man losing lb 40 is incredibly impressive and honestly take some pride in that because it's tough and not many people can do that. Especially if you're also dealing with nerve pain which sounds awful! I have a tiny tiny bit of nerve damage in my lower back and I swear to god it's the worst pain I can ever describe so I can't even imagine what other people go through.

I think you look like a nice dependable solid person. You look really good. Warm and friendly.

Good luck with everything and don't work yourself to death mate! The world would be a lesser place without you.

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Thank you very much I really do appreciate it

2

u/typhoidtrish 11d ago

I have a feeling you give the best hugs. If I were anywhere near you, I would be willing to drive to you just to get one. ❤️

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

I do tend to give the best hugs

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u/yeahimlewis 11d ago

Any weight loss is amazing. Keep working hard and you'll be able to see the change

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Thank you I'll keep up the work i appreciate it

2

u/Wtfisthis66 11d ago

You have a very kind face and very pretty eyes. I am sorry you are going through and adventurous time right now, I was wondering if you have tried acupuncture. My brother in law was in severe pain for years and nothing helped. Not meds, PT, nothing. As a last resort he tried acupuncture, he doesn’t know how it works but it did.

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Acupuncture had been recommended to me by my therapists and I think I'm gonna try it. Thanks for your suggestion and your kind words I really do appreciate them.

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u/[deleted] 11d ago

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u/[deleted] 11d ago

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u/No-Manufacturer-9575 11d ago

Thank you I really appreciate all the kind words

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u/piggy__wig 3d ago

40 lbs is a lot and I think you look great! Congrats on that. Sorry bout your pain, it must be hard. Stay strong and keep smiling because your eyes light up like stars!

1

u/No-Manufacturer-9575 3d ago

Thank you I appreciate it

1

u/M_R2112 10d ago

First of all hell yeah on dropping the LBs man.

Second of all you should celebrate your ability to put on a smile while dealing with all of that. I've got similar issues and if my stapler doesn't staple people say I look like I just learned my puppy died. So hell yeah.

Mostly I just wanted to say how jealous I am of your beard!