This week, April 3, marks a difficult anniversary of a dear friend of mine who we lost to suicide a year ago. I want to share a little about her story and a few thoughts and ways you might be able to show kindness around this subject.
McKenna Grace Martin was open-minded and always ready to hear every perspective to learn more about something. The kindness from her heart put people at ease because she was always there to listen and accept others. She was extremely passionate and driven and she motivated others around her to never give up on their dreams. Her witty and goofy sense of humor was always there to lighten the mood. She was a BOLD soul and challenged others to step out and be themselves no matter what.
McKenna was a wonderfully intelligent and passionate person that I had the honor of being friends with through a big part of my childhood. She carried herself with so much poise but was always so ready to help others grow and lean into their passions. Her impact was so great on so many in her short time here and for that, I am grateful.
McKenna’s Grace was developed by McKenna’s family after this tragedy occured last year. It’s goal is to help prevent more suicides on college campuses. Mckennasgrace.org is a 501(c)3 foundation that is striving to provide more resources and help to prevent this earth shattering occurrence. You can chose to give a one time donation or even set up a regular donation to the fund. If you choose to donate to this fund or help any other charity that addresses this topic please do so.
I think keeping this epidemic that seems to be so rampant in our culture in conversation is important. The responsibility doesn’t fall on us, but we must be conscious of the way we interact and treat other human beings. What can you do every single day to make someone feel valued? How can we be intentional with those around us to show them we care and value them as human beings for who they are? I think this is where the opportunity lies, not to burden us to “save” the people that struggle with mental health issues, but to instead heighten our awareness around people who are struggling. At the foundation of it all, how can we treat others with care and kindness, keep a dialogue open so they know they are heard and show them they matter.
Mental health issues are complex and by no means am I trying to deny this or believe it can be fixed by being nice to others. We can’t affect the ultimate decisions of others but we can treat others with kindness every day. Make them feel valued in hopes this will communicate they are worthy of life and deserve to be loved, even when they don’t feel like it.
Be aware of your friends struggles and really try and get to know them on a deeper level. Encourage them to reach out for help and even point them to resources you are aware of. If you know someone affected by suicide, talk to them about it even if it is hard and awkward. The care of those left behind is something you can help with! Be there to to support and walk with them through it. I know this was and still is an invaluable blessing my friends provided me.
Your life is valuable. You are important, seen and valued.
Thank you, sweet Morgan. Beautifully written ?