He means well. He has good intentions. He's nice. He's even aware of the damage he can do.

It doesn't mean he isn't a coward who falls into depression from every setback.

I applaud him for recognizing the parallel between Nanako's story of why she felt she had to leave Lake Biwa, his own depression from failing to make a difference, and tying that into their group project.

He's always had the tools he needed to succeed. He just lacks the endurance and the ability to pick himself back up. He's confusing that with opportunity. It isn't handed to you. You make them yourself, which he did with Kawasegawa when she was standing on the bridge. It absolutely isn't stolen from others or directing talented people to get it for you. Something his teacher pointed out with the screenplay discussion.

I too am hoping for a happy ending. I'm hoping this jump into the past ends with him back on his bed in 2016 like it never happened. Lessons learned, but without the timeline altered.