sadness

I always feel such a profound sadness when someone young dies, don't you? We found out last night that one of Stevie's friends committed suicide. They were kindred spirits suffering together all of the challenges that come with growing up with ADHD, and he had multiple other issues that I can't reveal.

I just hate that he felt his life was hopeless and that the only way to deal was to end it. He left behind siblings and parents who will mourn forever. I can't imagine a problem so large or despair so deep that would cause me to kill myself, but many people do. The problem is very real amongst younger people, and especially those with challenges. They feel that the world is against them because teachers, parents, friends, etc. just don't get them. I have seen the struggles that my own child has faced with insensitive teachers and church people. Those with whom she should have felt very safe, but didn't.

It's sad....so, so sad. Please, I beg you, try kindness. You never know when the words you say may prevent a tragedy like this.

review

I read a book when I was a teenager that impacted my life in a big way. I believe that Life, In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson could be that book for today's generation of teenagers and young adults. This book tells Kristen's story of how, as a depressed teen, she attempted to commit suicide but survived. She shouldn't have lived, but God had plans that she was unaware of! His plans to use her and her incredible story were something that she could not comprehend.

Today, when you look at her picture and read her story you are amazed at how full of life and joy she is. She exudes confidence and an appreciation for life that she had not experienced before. She is very real when talking about the struggles that God brought her through. I truly believe that everyone who reads this book will be touched and their lives will be changed for the better!


This book was provided for review by Waterbrookmultnomah.com