If you are bent out of shape and focused on Trump, Clinton, refugees, and Star Wars right now… STOP!!!
For the most part, NONE of those things will make an immediate difference in the lives of those around you, but there is one area you can make a difference. Before you wreck someone for being intolerant, stupid, or politically incorrect, take a moment and realize, maybe this person is hurting… maybe he or she is lonely, maybe your interaction is the last thing they will be thinking about, EVER! Be patient, kind, and show some love, go out of your way to help someone.
There is a worldwide epidemic of mental illness right now, and suicide rates spike every holiday season. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, or some other condition, don’t forget that you are valuable. Oftentimes, we make rash decisions when we are distressed and we lose hope. You might feel like no one cares, but that is not true. I care about your life, and so do many others. If you are feeling lost and lonely, watch the powerful video above of a young man who attempted suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, and immediately felt regret for his decision. He is one of a very few people who have lived to tell about it.
I have blogged about suicide and depression before, but when people are hurting, they feel insecure, and get desperate. It’s not uncommon for them to say things they don’t mean. Whether or not you are a spiritual person, there seems to be something healthy about showing love to someone in need. It is not your responsibility to fix the person, but your kindness or mercy might make a difference in someone’s life today. Forget about politics and other hot buttons for just a little while and make the world a better place.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, reach out to the people around you, be transparent about your fears, and insecurities, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255