I believe we each have struggles of one kind or
another. Some may be bigger and more
complex; others may seem small in comparison.
No matter what the struggle is, it is real and legitimate to the person
going through it. I wonder if we would treat those around us differently if we
each had a sign around our neck stating what we suffer from, struggle with or
worry over. Would we continue to judge
people based on our own perception and lack of knowledge of what is really going
on in a person’s life? Would we act with
more compassion, empathy, forgiveness and patience if we could really see the
inner turmoil of someone in front of us?
Or would we go out of our way to avoid uncomfortable conversations and
situations, deny that we heard or saw anything of concern and then plead
ignorance when a person’s struggles finally take them to a drastic place? How
could we change the lives of those around us just by listening and reaching out
to those who are silently screaming for help?
This week I find myself struggling with the loss of a
wonderful young lady, a 13 year old with beauty, talent and so much potential. I am desperately trying to understand
something that seems to have no answer. I find myself going over many different
occasions wondering if I missed seeing any sign that there was something
wrong. What could I have done had I been
aware there was a need? How did so many
people miss seeing she needed help? I
worry about the world my kids are growing up in. They seem to be a generation full of
opportunity but are in a world that is expecting them to grow up before they
are ready. They are dealing with issues
that kids are not mature enough or equipped to deal with, ending with drastic
results. I turned on the news this
morning and the first story is about a First Nation Community declaring a state
of emergency after a number of suicide attempts reported over this past
weekend. This community alone has
reported 101 suicide attempts since August.
How has this gotten so out of control? What message are people hearing
that makes them believe they are not worthy and that there is no other answer?
I desperately urge all who read this to pay attention to
those around you. Talk to your children. Make a point of knowing what is going
on in their lives. Leave no doubt in
their minds that you love them, are there for them and that they can come to
you with anything. Don’t be quick to
dismiss things that may seem insignificant to you but to a child or teenager
may just seem like the end of the world.
Truly listen and help them grow up confident knowing they are worthy;
they have a purpose and more than anything that they are loved.
Alana Regier
