# we do not want you to be uninformed

This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: "we want you to know" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

# We were so completely crushed beyond our strength that

Paul and Timothy refer their being discouraged as if they were forced to carry an object so heavy that they literally fell beneath its weight. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The troubles we faced were so difficult that we were completely discouraged, and" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

# we despaired even of life

"we could not see any way we could stay alive" or "we were sure we would die"