This week the world lost a talented actor and comedian. But the death of Robin Williams also brings to the spotlight a very serious health problem, depression. It does not have to lead to suicide. Many people condemn the individual who had taken this drastic and tragic step to end his or her pain. I can’t. I won’t.

I know all too well the pain that leads one to contemplate such a drastic step. I have thought about it many times through my entire life. Fourteen years ago I even wrote the note that I was going to leave behind. Suicide has nothing to do with the desire to die. I do not, and have never wanted to die.  I simply wanted to end the pain that I was experiencing, and that I felt I was causing my family. I truly, at that moment thought that my family would be better off without me. I’m one of the lucky ones though. Upon completing my suicide letter I felt a relief. I re-read it and and immediately destroyed it. I also sought professional help. Find a trained counselor. Preferably a Christian counselor.

To those who may know someone battling depression, come along side then and love them. Encourage them. Pray for them.  Depression is an illness. Sadly, or is a hidden problem. And our nice Christian, churchy platitudes don’t help. But prayer and love work wonders.

Finally, do not assume that one who has taken this extreme step is automatically condemned to hell. First, it is not our place to judge. Second, let God be God. I can only hope and pray that there was once last chance for that person to seek forgiveness. Not to mention, the friends and family left behind really don’t need to hear that.

My prayers go out to, not only the family ams frowns of Robin Williams,  but to all who have lost a friend or family member to suicide.

And to those battling depression, or contemplating suicide, please hang on just one more day. Or, if need be, just one more minute. I know you may be feeling all alone,  but you are not alone.