I don't think I need to state anymore the state of emergency that we are in. Talking about it isn't changing anything. Well, it is. It's making us more and more angry. And, that's not a bad thing at all. Perhaps, we can begin turning the anger into positive action. No longer can we wait for somebody else to initiate the change. Each and every one of us has to do our part, to the best of our ability, to prevent this from continuing. Sometimes, simple steps go a long way:
- know the warning signs. I can't emphasize enough how important that is.
- Talk to your son, daughter, sister, brother, or friend, if they appear to be in distress. More importantly, listen carefully to what they're saying.
- Don't hesitate to get the proper authorities involved.
- Have resources readily available if you know of someone who's voicing suicidal ideation.
- Wipeout Homophobia on Facebook isn't just about the LGBT community. They're touching, and saving many lives. They have a wonderful section on suicide support on their website. Use it.
- Keep this link handy: Befrienders Worldwide.
- And, definitely have this number readily available: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) That is the number for the national suicide prevent lifeline. They have a website as well as a facebook page.
My heart hurts every time I see where another child has committed suicide. These are CHILDREN!!!
ReplyDeletehi. i think it is really terrible that a young princess has lost her life due to bullying. i send my love and wishes to her and her family and friends. as well as the other young people suffering from this kind of abuse. i think bullYing starts from home and the lack of attention ones child gets at home. i thank god for the people out here that's being there for EIRA AND ALL THE OTHER KIDS WE MORN ABOUT.ILL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYS. LOVE PEACE AND RESPECT.
DeleteThis is ridiculous ppl have to learn to be happy with who they are and understand that nothing is ever that bad or hard to live thru. Someone elses words or ac
ReplyDeletetions should never influence whether you live or die and realize that your
death has changed nothing only grief for those who really do care. Dont give society the satifaction of your none presence you have the right to live no matter who you are. It may seem hard but just do it LIVE PLZ give yourself a chance
I am unbelievably saddened by this; what an extreme shame. Many may find it hard to understand a twelve year old already realizing they are homosexual. However; I assure you this is possible, as I have always known I was not the misunderstood "norm". Just as we learned; as a nation, prejudice in any form is the perpetuation of ignorance and the spread of hate... One day soon our culture will learn it is an injustice to the next generation to not meet all with an open mind, treat all with an open heart, and to love all unconditionally.
ReplyDeleteIt is heart breaking every time another young soul is lost due to suicide. My only concern, is that your blog clearly states that you are dealing with gay teen suicide. Yet, the articles that I have seen published regarding this young man do not indicate a reason, as of yet, for his choice. It is important to bring a voice to our youth who are saddened and hurting.... just be careful not to bring the wrong voice. No one knows why he killed himself - assuming it's because he was gay is wrong. Not only for Clifford but for all gay youth. Your concern is valid - the heading of your blog should change if you are going to post before knowing all the facts.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your insight. You're correct: the heading on my blog does, in fact, state that I will be dealing with gay teen suicide issues. However, I've written about teen suicides, regardless of sexual orientation. Nowhere in this article about Clifford Rodriques do I state, or even imply, that he was a gay youth. Nothing I read anywhere gave me any indication that that was, in fact, part of the story.
DeleteThe heading of my blog states that I will be dealing with issues surrounding gay teen suicides. That will not change. However, every life of a young person, gay or straight, is precious. Losing a young life, gay or straight, is incredibly troubling to say the least. As such, I will continue to write about both without prejudice.