When I tell my story, others in the audience are inspired to tell theirs. And that’s the conversation and connection I want to happen.
You never know who in the audience is touched by mental illness, substance misuse or both. Most everyone has someone in their life effected by either one.
And when I speak, oftentimes people in the audience tell us stories they’ve never told anyone. Tara has actually tried to talk about her best friend with others. But conversation about the friend she wants to remember is often met with disdain and judgement because we don’t understand suicide. It’s not an act of selfishness, it’s an act of desperation.
A special thanks to Tara for speaking on camera. I have others I will be posting here soon. Your stories and testimonials about my topic and my presentation are important. And many of you in the audience have given your testimony and it’s appreciated. More will be posted in the coming months.
Tara, thank you for your honesty in acknowledging the judgement we all are quick to default to. It’s amazing how that can turn to compassion and understanding when we see it through a different lens.