Just found out a person from one of my organizations committed suicide, not the first time for me, I’ll be alright. More of a PSA to remind you guys to check on those around you, and if you need help please ask. I know I’ve been there before, and the hardest part was taking that first step out of that hole, for me it was a text to one of my best friends “help”
---
Though I would like to take this opportunity to take a moment and reminisce about a time when I was in the opposite position and I didn’t know what to say. It was back in middle school, my best friend had gotten deathly ill and was hospitalized. They were on life support, awake and aware of where they were and truly trapped in their own body at that point. They were not allowed visitors as in their weak condition fear of additional disease could truly be the last straw. At the time I didn’t know what to do, I didn’t know what to say. Cell phones had yet to be commonplace so couldn’t even call. At the time my hobby was drawing, and hiding from my own fears went a drew the blueprints to a rather extreme off road vehicle. The image was poster size, and to this day decently realistic. My mom seeing it almost in completion asked if I wanted to send it to my friend knowing his mother would be headed out again that evening. I never shared a drawing before, and had moment of joy, something to share I don’t know what to say but I can finish up this view (3 standard + isometric) and it will be done. About a month goes by, he finally returns from the hospital. I’m over his house and seeing all the get-well letters, and we miss you cards and at the time feeling pretty stupid while everyone else was sending well wishes I sent a vehicle blueprint. And I apologize for not sending something better. “NO.” he swiftly said. ‘Everything else in that room only reminded me of where I was, the condition I was in, and what I couldn’t do. I stared at that poster all day imaging how much fun that would be to drive and take it anywhere but here.’
---
So, even if you’re not sure what to say or what to do, realize something as simple as “I’m here” or “I’m listening” can go a long way. --- Look out for each other.