Joy and Praise

Today I have so much to be thankful for. I have received a good report from the oncologist. I have past my 1 year mark cancer free. I can praise God for all he has done this last year and a half. It has been quite a ride. I am now ready to jump back into what I truly feel so passionate about. The work is great. The need is plenty. The causes of suicide are numerous, but foremost Mental Illness and substance abuse head the list. I ponder each day what I can do too further the awareness of these real and tangible areas in need of attention.
We who are passionate in this area know that the act of suicide is not something that a mentally healthy person will attempt. The times when we meet people or have loved ones who talk about suicide, we should always take them seriously. The stigmas attached to suicide are still a part of society that is inexcusable. I don't want to seem harsh in my statements but until we see suicide as a preventable action, we have not done any help to the people who have already learned this through personal experience. You can not talk to any person who has lost a loved one to suicide with out them honestly saying they would not want any one else to suffer as they do from a suicide of a loved one.
We may not know what to say to a person who is depressed or in some way considering suicide as an option. We CAN be there for them, We can sit with them, We can pray with them, We can encourage them, We can love them. If we are unsure of our own ability to help a person we can certainly do our best to find someone who does know what to say or do. I encourage you, who may not understand the reason for someone that has ended their own life. We can be a comfort to those left behind. For each person that dies by suicide there is someone that loved them that will have to learn how they can live without them.
I am sure now that I can live without my son here on earth with me. I have not always believed that. It has taken many years and a lot of friends and family that have helped through the darkest times. I have done things the wrong way and still God has not left my side. I know this because it is by his spirit I can do whatever is needed today. I will see him again someday.
I hope you find comfort in knowing that not only will you survive this terrible loss but that you CAN come out on the other side of your grief and be even more joyous and alive then you can imagine. Don't ever give up. Reach out to others. Never isolate yourself and allow yourself time to heal. Be honest with yourself and others. They may not understand what you are feeling and they don't always say or do what is helpful for you. They are trying to help and it's OK to tell them what you need from them.
I am sorry that you are in the place that you are and I offer myself to anyone needing to talk or be encouraged. I am truly a friend.I may not know you, but I know the pain.

Pattie
Mom left behind

"He healeth the broken heart, and bindeth up their wounds." Psalm14:3