A year and a half ago a friend of mine committed suicide. After a fight with her husband at his place of employment she stormed out, walked home, went into the basement and hung herself. This form of suicide is very unusual for a woman. They don’t usually choose such a violent end to life. It was a dramatic statement as to her state of mind at the time. To say that her family and friends were in shock is quite an understatement. We just couldn’t wrap our minds around it. How could this happen, we asked.
For weeks I questioned what role I might have played in this tragic event. I asked myself, was I a good enough friend? Could I have been a better listener? Noticing there was something troubling her weeks before she took her life, I reached out to offer support. But her response was, “No. I’m good. Everything’s going to be fine.”
Before the memorial service I met with her husband who told me that she had left a note. He asked if I wanted to see it. And I said, “Only if you want to share it with me.” He opened his wallet and handed me the scribbled note she wrote minutes before she pushed the chair out from under her body rendering it lifeless. The first sentence of her suicide note said, “I don’t feel loved.”
I vowed in that moment to do all I can so no one has to go through life not feeling loved. As a spiritual teacher and healer I am absolutely committed to teaching the sacredness of all life. Every person has equal value in the eyes of God. And every person has something unique and wonderful to bring to life. Understanding this truth becomes the entryway for self-love. And self-love is a prerequisite for letting love in. Without it, no one will ever be able to love you enough. Loving someone who doesn’t love them self is like pouring water into a bucket with a hole in it. Nothing can ever be retained.
That is why I created this webinar series, Letting Love In. I dedicate it to my lost friend who did not feel loved in this world.
Today is #GivingTuesday. #GivingTuesday is a global day dedicated to giving back. Today, on Tuesday, December 2, 2014, charities, families, businesses, community centers, and people around the world will come together for one common purpose: to celebrate generosity and to give.
That is why I am sharing this story with you today. I trust it will lead many to self-love and help others avoid her terrible fate.
Blessings,
Dr. Chris
I usually refain from making comments on the internet, but this time it seems appropriate. You are right on, I found your message so encouraging and uplifting. What a special gift you have! I am so happy I took the time to listen. Loving oneself…what a concept.