In Light Of::

In light of the announcement of the 15- year old girl who has committed suicide from South Hadley, Massachusetts, I'd like to talk a little bit more about my platform, Depression and Suicide Awareness, Specifically the suicide part.

Many people have told me lately, wow that must be so hard to talk about! The truth is, it can be at times. I just have to remind myself that I CAN help, and I CAN make a difference. Suicide rates are increasing at alarming rates, and the World Health Organization said that approximately One MILLION people die each year from suicide!!! This is one death every 40 seconds, and it is predicted that by 2020 it will be one every 20 seconds. Suicide is the THIRD leading cause of death in the world among 15-44 year olds!!! In America, it is the THIRD leading cause of death for people ages 15-24.

The thing is, Suicide is one of the most PREVENTABLE causes of death in the WORLD!!! It just takes everyone sharing a little bit of love, and sharing a smile to everyone you see. [:

The young girl, Pheobe Prince, was said to have committed suicide after being BULLIED through text messages, Facebook, and in person. What a tragedy that our young people are so okay with hurting other people, and acting like they don't have feelings. Just because someone is a little different, or does not do things like everyone else, does not give ANYONE the right to make fun of them! These bullying habits are not just a problem in that single Massachusetts school. It is a problem ALL over the country, and even the world.

Just try and compliment people, instead of hurting them. Remeber that saying your mother taught you when you were little?
"If you cant say something NICE, Do NOT say anything at ALL!"
Thats something we ALL need to remember! What good does it do YOU do bring someone else down? It gets no positive results.

Everyone has sad thoughts. Everyone feel angry sometimes. What matters is how we handle those feelings. Get mad! Thats OKAY!! Instead of wanting to hurt yourself, Hit a pillow, or your bed. I personally have to write down my feelings. I journal, and also write songs. They may not be the BEST, but they help me feel better. Listen to some of your favorite music, something upbeat and happy. Talk to your friends, a local youth pastor, counselor. SOMEONE. Just please, Im begging you. Do NOT hurt yourself. It may seem like the answer at the time, but believe me, its not.

Why must some hurt others by "dissing" their clothes or music choices or ethnicity?? Try this for me:: Tomorrow, Find ONE positive thing about every person you talk to. Compliment them on it. See how good it makes YOU feel, and watch their face light up, because you made theirs.

Go Red Days. [:

So, last Thursday and Friday were a BLAST!
Thursday was "Go Red Day at the Capital" We had a proclamation read and got to meet all of the House of Representatives and Senators for Oklahoma.
Friday we went to the new South Oklahoma Heart Hospital for Go Red Day. Such amazing stories from the survivors of Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Definitely touched my life.

Remember, February is Heart Health Month! Treat your heart right, because heart health is personal.
Next weekend is the Tulsa Womens Expo! Come by and see the International Pageant girls!