It was announced via news media
channels today that the actor Lee Thompson Young took his own life in
the early hours of this morning. Most recently know for his role as
Detective Barry Frost on the show Rizzoli & Isles, Young's
body was discovered with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot
wound.
This got me thinking.
I don't understand suicide.
I know that depression is a real thing,
and that it can take you to places within yourself that are dark and
lonely. I know that sadness can linger. I know that there are times
when it feels like emptiness will swallow you whole. I know that
everyone has inner demons to fight. I know that loss, and addiction,
and pain can build a prison of despair.
And I know that for some they feel
driven beyond control. They stand on the edge of the cliff looking
down into their personal abyss and believe that there is nothing left
to hold on to.
And they let go.
I know that.
But I don't understand it.
I don't understand because I have never
been there. Sad, yes. Lonely, yes. At a breaking point, oh yes.
But I've never been there. I know that the sun will rise in the
morning. I know that dawn will break and waves will crash, and
clouds will roll by. Wind will rustle the leaves and the grass, sway
the mighty oak, awaken a chorus of birds who will fill the air with
song. I know that in the light of a new day things that seemed so
big in the dark hours of the night will be shown up without their
shadows.
I know that.
And I know that for some people, the
horrors of the night can still be seen even in the bright light of a
cloudless day.
I know that.
But I don't understand it.
If you or someone you love
is in need, please reach out for help.
Call the National Suicide
Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
This post is dedicated to
the memory of Lee Thompson Young.
