Love, Not Hate

I am haunted by something I read the other day. I am so disturbed and deeply sad that anyone would have to feel this way, even for a moment, and, yet, I'm sure there are so many more that experience this same horrible, oppressive, devastating feeling. Self-hate so strong, so suffocating and painful, that a person would rather end their life than endure another second of it. There is no one who deserves this. No one. And to think that a wonderful, unique, and worthy human being, as each of are, feels this way, or ever felt this way, is a tragedy. What can we do to help? What can we do to end self-hate?

Please consider carefully how your words and actions affect other people, people who hurt and bleed just like you. Please offer a kind word, a friendly gesture, a compassionate deed, a hand of friendship. Let's help each other to become, to grow, to heal. There is enough sadness, despair, loss, and death in the world. Be one who spreads love and life and peace.

I understand what it feels like to be hated, to be the butt of jokes, to be the object of ridicule and disgust. It's a horrible, soul-crushing, nauseating feeling and it leaves scars that never completely fade away. Please talk to someone about your pain, especially if it is unbearable. It's OK to show that you hurt, that you're vulnerable. We all do. We all are. There is healing and hope.

The author of the sentiment I read might not feel like this anymore and I hope with all my heart that they don't. But I know there are others that feel this way, too. Here's a number to call if the pain is more than you can handle:

1-800-273-8255
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Please know that you are deserving of kindness, happiness, love, and life.