There is no one on earth quite like you; from the pattern of your strands of hair to your fingerprints, you are singular. The sequence of your thoughts and the staircase of your experiences are only known by you. With your unique perspective, we need your voice to enrich the world.

I know that right now it feels like there is no way out. Right now it feels like you are in an impossible situation, with intense feelings that you cannot shake, and no hope, no method of escape. Dark thoughts swirl in jagged circles within your mind, whispering that you are hopeless and worthless and people would be better off you.  These are all lies.  There is hope, and we need you here.

Whatever has happened in your life that brought you to this point, whatever burden you are struggling to shoulder, there is always hope that one day things that will turn around. There are kind people out there who want to help you carry the weight of your world. Maybe you feel like you are strange and no one could understand you. I want to tell you that if you search long enough, you will find people who understand. Besides, your unique voice is why you need to stick around. Through sharing your perspective, we can all grow.

Maybe you feel weak. Well, the world has enough strong, dominant people. We need more sensitive and vulnerable ones like you. Your passion can break down walls and build bridges. The world has enough people who live blindly without thinking and feeling. Preserve the sensitive, emotional person you are, and use your heart to contribute to the world.

Maybe you feel like life is meaningless. Suicide is not the cure for that. The cure is finding ways to give your life meaning. Find something you are passionate about and chase that dream. Find beauty in unexpected places. Even in the darkest days, there are moments of beauty and hope. I believe you will get better. You have a story to tell and your voice is important. As you make the choice to step away from this precipice, over time you will appreciate life again. Years later, you can tell the story of how you almost killed yourself, but chose life instead.

If you ever need anyone to talk to, don’t hesitate to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at any time. 1-800-273-8255

About The Author:

Lynne Shayko is a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling at Kent State University.  She has been published by The Mighty, Thought Catalog, and local poetry anthologies.  Some of her work is available here.