During life’s day to day, it’s often the unexpected encounters that leave a lasting impact on our hearts and minds. I recently found myself leaving a Pastors meeting, my mind preoccupied with all the amazing people I had just met when an encounter with one of these new friends reminded me of the profound pain that suicide can inflict upon individuals and their loved ones. As I was approached by a gentleman with a tear in his eye, his words resonated deeply within me: “Hey, you’re the guy who works with people struggling with mental health, suicide, and addiction, right?” Without hesitation, I confirmed his recognition, and that’s when he shared his heart-wrenching story.
He recounted the tragic loss of one of his military brothers to suicide just the past Saturday. The raw emotion in his voice, the tear that glistened in his eye — it all underscored the unfathomable grief that suicide leaves in its wake. In that moment, the pain, the trauma, and the sorrow that ripples through the lives of those left behind became all too real once again. Whether it’s a close friend, a beloved family member, or even an acquaintance, the agony of suicide knows no boundaries, touching everyone it reaches with an indescribable weight.
As someone who has dedicated himself to understanding and assisting those grappling with mental health, suicide, and addiction, I’ve encountered countless stories and shared in the anguish of those who have been affected. Yet, every time I’m approached by someone seeking help or understanding, my heart sinks, and I grapple with a sense of inadequacy. The weight of the situation, the depth of the pain, and the complexity of emotions leave me humbled and searching for the right words or actions.
However, amidst this sense of inadequacy, there remains a wellspring of compassion, empathy, and a resolute willingness to stand beside those who are struggling. It was during that encounter with the grieving gentleman that something extraordinary happened — my tears began to flow. In that moment, time seemed to stand still as I felt a profound connection with a stranger, a shared understanding of the immense pain he was carrying. It was a moment of disassociation, as if I were looking at myself from the outside, realizing that the pain was real, and it was shared.
This experience has taught me that true authority in moments of deep pain and sorrow doesn’t necessarily come from having all the right answers. It isn’t about having the perfect words to explain or the solutions to heal. Rather, it comes from a willingness to stand unwaveringly in the midst of the discomfort, to hold space for another’s suffering without attempting to explain it away. It’s about resisting the urge to hide from the pain, to run from it, or to numb it with empty phrases. Genuine authority lies in the simple act of being present — offering a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear, and a heart that genuinely cares.
It’s important to recognize that we cannot fully comprehend the unique journey everyone is on. We can’t claim to know exactly what they’re feeling or the depths of their inner turmoil. But here’s where the ray of hope enters the picture — I’ve come to believe in a Savior who does understand. A Savior who bore the weight of the world’s pain and suffering, who knows intimately the depths of despair and anguish. Jesus, who willingly suffered on the cross, carried our burdens, and emerged victorious over darkness, is the one who utterly understands.
So, as we navigate the complex landscape of mental health, suicide, and addiction, let us remember that we don’t need to have all the answers. What we do need is an open heart, a willingness to stand with others, and a recognition that there is hope even in the darkest moments. The hope of Jesus reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, that there is a source of strength beyond ourselves, and that healing, and redemption are possible, even in the face of overwhelming pain.
In a world where the shadows of despair can sometimes seem overpowering, let us be bright beams of light and compassion. Let us stand united against the darkness, offering a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, and a heart that understands. Together, as we walk this journey with empathy and grace, we can find solace in the hope of Jesus, knowing that even amidst the most agonizing trials, there is a love that surpasses all understanding, ready to embrace us and lead us toward healing.
