Why am I writing this post?
On Thursday, one of our neighbors took his own life. He was a brilliant, talented man -- top of his field of work in Australia and equally talented in his personal life internationally. A sad and tragic loss. And in an effort to come to terms with the sadness of this loss not just for us as a close neighborhood, but for his family, I wanted to write a piece that reaches out to those who might feel the same way this man did.
If you feel so alone that taking your life seems to be the only answer -- it isn't. Trust me.
There is always a way to make life better... always!
If ever any of us are in such a dark place, we have to remind ourselves to reach out and turn the light on. There is always a light switch somewhere.
The article I have attached to this post really says it all. I wanted to share it with everyone because not only is it important for those who feel stuck or sad or alone -- but it is also important for those who know someone who suffers from depression -- important to let them know you are there and that you do not judge them for how they feel -- that they are no less valuable because they feel that way.
As either sufferers or supporters, we all need to know that support is the key. So if anyone out there feels alone or stuck -- reach out. Despite the feeling of being alone -- know that you are not and that there is no shame or loss of face in reaching out and admitting you feel this way. In fact you might be surprised to know that many other people feel this way. There is comfort there. So reach out. Taking one's own life only cuts off the chance of having a better life and leaves people behind who will always wish they had the chance to help make things better. So share your feelings if you feel like you are in a dark place -- because you are not alone.
We are so fortunate in this great country to have so many organizations that offer support. Look up your local depression support network and call them. But remember to also try and reach out to those close around you... friends, family, colleagues, doctors, etc. They would want the chance to help you to make your experience of life better.
And always remember -- life is a journey. There are many different ways we can choose to navigate it. Like a map -- there are many ways of reaching our destination of inner peace. We just have to find the path that is right for us. I did! I wrote! I used my writing as my expression of my feelings. I wrote down what worked for me and, every now and again, when in a place of darkness, I turn on my light and go to my book to remind myself of what works and what is important in life! My family and friends sometimes remind me to do this too!
So if you feel you are stuck -- trust me, there is always another path you can choose. All you have to do is find it. Sometimes it might take time to find it. But trust me -- you can, and will, find it. Just turn on the light, reach out, and get the support and guidance you need to find the path that will bring you closer to your inner peace and happiness. After all...
Life IS worth fighting for!
For a better experience of life is always there for the living!
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If you -- or someone you know -- need help, please call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. If you are outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of international resources.