When a Loved One Takes Their Own Life
When someone decides that life is too hard and takes their own life, it is often very difficult for those that are left behind to comprehend the desperation and deep pain of the person that has left.
Many people spend years asking what they could have done to help, or what if they had been more supportive, more caring, listened better, asked more questions …. the list is often unending.
For those that are left behind, there is a real mixture of emotions – abandonment, anger, grief, sadness, guilt and incomprehension. There is also recognition of personal struggles with life, and a reflection of the times that leaving the earth has seemed an attractive option as well.
When someone is remembered as having been a real pleasure to know in life, it can be very difficult to come to terms with why they would want to take their own life. It teaches us that no matter which face people show to the world, there is always a story going on underneath.
Losing someone that you care about to suicide can turn out to be a gift in the long run. They can be teaching you to really value those around you, and to listen to and connect with on a deep level those that you care about.
How often do we regret not calling someone, or not being called by someone when life is tough? How often has a small gesture made the world of difference to you from a friend or a complete stranger, and really enabled you to feel a connection with the human race?
Most people crave deep connection whilst we are here on this planet. Few people achieve it. Life gets in the way, and it is so easy to realise that a decade has passed since you last dropped someone a note or an email to show that you care.
We very rarely truly understand what is going on in someone else’s life, or how much pain they are in. Regardless of where you believe we go after death, there is a sense that suicide is a reminder of how short life is and how we need to take responsibility for our actions on a daily basis. Until we fully understand the whole picture, we will never know the part we play in this play called life.
Be kind to others. Connect with those that you love. Appreciate the love that you receive, and most of all, learn to love yourself. You are worth it.
My website is the culmination of many years of seeking answers about my own health and well-being, and studying the human condition. I write articles, am a healer and give talks about subjects relating to spiritual growth and personal development. I am passionate about healing, recovery, and assisting others to grow.
