Dear Hurting,

            I may not know you, and you may not know me, but I am here. I don’t know what you’ve been through, or why you’re hurting. The one thing I do know is that I, along with many others, know your pain. You’re not alone in this universe; you never have been.

In one way or another, we are all connected. That is the way the universe is designed. That’s what makes it easy for us to fall asleep on a stranger on public transportation. It is what shapes our opinions and views of the world. Ultimately, the interconnectivity is what compels me to write a letter for you.

          Your pain is not a cross you have to bear alone. Please, don’t. Being alone in your time of need is the worst thing you can do for yourself. There are people who care for you; I am one of them. Talk to one of us. Talk to anyone. You don’t even have to say a word. Write, sing, dance, or simply sit close to someone. I promise you with all that I am that you will feel better.

I know that in your mind, you believe the world will continue without you. In truth, the world as a whole will. But the people in your world will be shattered. Our atmosphere will be grief. Your friends and family will feel hollow. Just because you aren’t here anymore, doesn’t mean you’ll cease to exist. Everyone will be left with broken pieces they don’t know what to do with. No one you knew will want to experience any part of this world without you in it.

Life is a roller coaster. It’s fun and scary all in the same second. Don’t cut your ride short, because the thrills are worth every second of the fear. You can do this. Sincerely,

                                                       Someone Who Once Stood Where You’re Standing

US Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

 

1 in 5 high school students have suicidal thoughts. 1 in 6 make plans to commit suicide and 1 in 12 teens attempt suicide every year. Do not add your number to their ranks.