Every Life Matters

We often see people's pain and scars, from the depressed and lonely to the ones who cope with alcohol and substances. But then, there are people in dire need, with silent signs we may not see. Despite the outside facade, there's hidden, agonizing despair. And we're left with one horrifying question: Why?

Perhaps you've had suicidal ideations. Maybe you've dealt with tragedy on some level, even if it was a classmate from afar, acquaintance, friend, or family member.

It hurts. It numbs. It confuses. 

I spent many years and tears reliving memories and every emotion imaginable. Fundamentally, experiences significantly shaped how I view the world and people.

In the thick of a torturous fog, I've felt glimpses of hopelessness myself. While I've never been suicidal, there were times when I wish I were never born. I pondered how getting out of certain situations would be so much easier if I didn't have to face the music, get in trouble, or deal with stressors in my mind and body. Although I've had seasons of depression and anxiety, life never got to the point of no return. 

Thankfully, I never thought about harming myself, but I have personal experience with those who take it to the next level. I know what it feels like to feel frozen outside your body, waiting and mentally preparing for the worst.

I can see the slippery slope many face. We all have trauma and need help on some level—no one is immune. 

We're humanly flawed.

Even when I couldn't see how life would improve in dark, tender moments, I always had hope and faith that everything would work out. It was simply a knowing. And that was what I clung on to, always, and what I repeated to myself over and over when life got murky. 

When I thought I had no one by my side, I always knew I had my own built-in best friend: myself and God.

I knew God would save me, and I was never truly alone. 

I knew medication would help me be less depressed and anxious.

And I knew I had a purpose in this world, regardless of my flaws, near-death moments, and moments that could have resulted in death. 

We all have different experiences with varying reactions.

Regardless of what you've been through or what you believe, you're here for a reason. Even if you don't realize or recognize the truth in front of you, your life matters.

Every life matters.

You're precisely and purposely made, and there is light after darkness.

It may be taboo. It may be uncomfortable. However, I want to lead authentically and intentionally, which includes passionately discussing mental health and suicide prevention.

It's National Suicide Prevention Month, and it’s time to SAVE lives.

You're not alone in the dark depths of depression, and you'll never regret reaching out to someone in need.