The President's Message 9/2/24

"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” — John Green

As we observe September’s Suicide Prevention Month, we reflect on the profound introspective journey that those affected by suicide must undertake. John Green’s poignant words resonate deeply with my personal experience. My best friend committed suicide in 2013, and navigating life without him has been incredibly challenging. There are days when the weight of grief and helplessness feels overwhelming, but I’ve learned that my pain is temporary. My hope is anchored in something deeper—my faith in God, which serves as my guide during the darkest days.

Surviving the loss of a loved one to suicide brings a unique set of challenges, often pushing us into a profound state of introspection.

Here are some introspective ways of self-preservation that have helped me navigate this journey:

• Faith and Spirituality: My faith in God has been my anchor through the storm. Turning to prayer, meditation, and scripture provides a sense of comfort and perspective. Spiritual practices can offer solace and a reminder that we are part of something larger than ourselves.

• Self-Reflection: Taking time to reflect on my thoughts and emotions helps me understand my internal struggles. Journaling has been a valuable tool in this process. By writing down my feelings, I can see patterns, identify triggers, and find ways to cope. It’s a way of acknowledging my pain without letting it consume me.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation helps me stay present. These techniques allow me to observe my thoughts without judgment and bring a sense of calm. Mindfulness helps in breaking the cycle of negative thinking, reminding me that emotions are temporary and ever-changing.

• Connecting with Nature: Spending time in nature provides a healing environment where I can find peace. Whether it’s a walk in the park or sitting by a river, nature’s tranquility helps ground me and offers a fresh perspective on life’s challenges.

• Seeking Meaning and Purpose: Understanding that my pain is temporary encourages me to seek meaning and purpose beyond my grief. Volunteering, helping others, or engaging in creative activities can provide a sense of fulfillment and remind me of the positive impact I can still make in the world.

• Building a Support Network: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups is crucial. Sharing my experiences with others who understand or simply being around loved ones can provide much-needed emotional support. It’s important to remember that we don’t have to face our struggles alone.

Hope is a powerful force, and it can be found even in the most unlikely places. For me, it’s rooted in my faith and the belief that there is a purpose to my journey, even if it’s not always clear. Embracing hope doesn’t mean ignoring the pain; it means recognizing that pain is part of the human experience, and it will pass.

As Suicide Prevention Month progresses, I urge everyone to look inward and find their own sources of strength and hope. Whether it’s through faith, reflection, mindfulness, or connection, there are ways to navigate the darkness. Remember, there is hope, even when it feels out of reach. By anchoring ourselves in our sources of strength and embracing introspective practices, we can find the resilience to move forward.

Let’s commit to supporting one another, reaching out, and sharing our stories. Together, we can create a community of understanding and hope, ensuring that no one has to face their struggles alone.