These words were spoken by Rodney King in the aftermath of the not guilty verdicts against the 4 four police officers that sparked the LA Riots in 1992. The words seemed appropriate for the state of our world today.
From the events of Charlottesville last month where a young lady Heather Heyer's life came to an end. She was exercising her right to free speech and protest. To the sabre rattling done between world leaders.
There have been some bright moments of people going above and beyond to help out their fellow people. Hurricane Harvey caused tremendous damage to Houston and surrounding areas. In the aftermath, we have heard outstanding stories of average people going above and beyond, sometimes risking their own safety to help those in need. Whenever, there is tragedy it brings out the best and worst of humanity. Some people trying to profit off of it and others compromising their own safety for others.
The one thing I do know is that the effect all of this plays on and with our mental health. In the face of all the negativity we hear through the media it is especially hard to keep a positive outlook and not get mired down in depressive thoughts and actions.
I remember years ago driving in Orlando witnessing a car accident. One car ran a stop light and crashed into another. The driver of one of the cars gets out running up to the other car and says in a loud voice I am going to sue your ass. He was not in the least bit concerned about the well being of the driver, only concerned about his own well being from a financial perspective.
We all need to take a step back and say can we all get along. I know I have learned that some things are not worth getting worked up over. As my fiancee reminds me what is the worst possible outcome. Somebody will get mad and bent out of shape, or if you make a mistake did anyone die. We spend too much time and effort getting worked up for most of the time no reason at all. All it does it just depletes our energy and body from focusing on what is really important, which is being the best person I can be in light of everything around us. Dealing with whatever hand we are dealt in a positive way.
Tuesday, 26 September 2017
Monday, 11 September 2017
Take a Minute, Change a Life
Today is September 11 a day that we will never forget. Yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day.
Everyone at some point in their lives has been touched by suicide. Yesterday I remembered my cousin who took her own life 28 years ago. She was so young, vibrant and full of life, yet hid her demons from the outside world. I still think of her. At the time I didn't know what I know today about suicide and mental health. I spent many years searching for answers that never came. I would leave the room if the TV showed, her method. I was also afraid to hear the mention of her name out loud. Especially, if that person was young.
If you are dealing with issues that feel overwhelming and not wanting to continue, please reach out. You are loved, you are supported. You are valued, You are special.
17 years ago, I was in a dark place and I contemplated ending my life. I was on vacation in the southern United States by myself. I was having a miserable time. Thoughts crossed my mind about here I am in the middle of nowhere, no body would care if I never came back. What stopped me? In my hotel room I had CNN on and they were showing live continuous coverage of young Elian Gonzalez being reunited whit his father.
I reached out to my father. I called him and without judgement he sensed could hear in my voice something was wrong. He said how can I help.
A couple of months ago, I was sharing my mental health story with a middle school class. The class can ask questions or make comments on cards. After I finished, one comment said, I am so glad that you didn't end your life. I thanked the young student and said so am I. Not a day passes without me thinking how lucky and blessed to be here and hope to be here for another 30-40 years.
The people who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 were going about their normal routines just getting started on their day. It proved how fragile our life is.
Everyone has a special story to contribute to life and it is worth sharing.
Live it, love it and share it.
Everyone at some point in their lives has been touched by suicide. Yesterday I remembered my cousin who took her own life 28 years ago. She was so young, vibrant and full of life, yet hid her demons from the outside world. I still think of her. At the time I didn't know what I know today about suicide and mental health. I spent many years searching for answers that never came. I would leave the room if the TV showed, her method. I was also afraid to hear the mention of her name out loud. Especially, if that person was young.
If you are dealing with issues that feel overwhelming and not wanting to continue, please reach out. You are loved, you are supported. You are valued, You are special.
17 years ago, I was in a dark place and I contemplated ending my life. I was on vacation in the southern United States by myself. I was having a miserable time. Thoughts crossed my mind about here I am in the middle of nowhere, no body would care if I never came back. What stopped me? In my hotel room I had CNN on and they were showing live continuous coverage of young Elian Gonzalez being reunited whit his father.
I reached out to my father. I called him and without judgement he sensed could hear in my voice something was wrong. He said how can I help.
A couple of months ago, I was sharing my mental health story with a middle school class. The class can ask questions or make comments on cards. After I finished, one comment said, I am so glad that you didn't end your life. I thanked the young student and said so am I. Not a day passes without me thinking how lucky and blessed to be here and hope to be here for another 30-40 years.
The people who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 were going about their normal routines just getting started on their day. It proved how fragile our life is.
Everyone has a special story to contribute to life and it is worth sharing.
Live it, love it and share it.
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