9/21/2008

Words, Words, Words - to savor and abuse

In spite of all of the technological communication tools available to us, words are at the core of nearly everything we do. We read them, we write them, we speak, whisper, and shout them.

We can paint mind pictures, create and change relationships, make love, and make enemies all through our choice of words.

I just read a post about the use of words that I want to share, because the author, Arlene Bice has touched on another use of words - demeaning, insulting and assassination of character. So rampant during this charged time before our National elections.

And who are the offenders, read Arlene's post here Arlene S. Bice blog: Political Words

Shouldn't we all take Time to
Think about the words we hear and evaluate what they are intended to portray?

9/01/2008

Teenagers helping Teenagers understand Teenage Suicide

Two days ago I became a Great Grandfather!

Obviously, my children are well beyond their teen age years, but their children aren't. Fortunately, our family has been able to navigate through their trying 'growing-up years' without major mishap.

But a lot of families haven't. They have experienced heartbreaking incidents of automobile deaths caused by underage drinking, serious life threatening illnesses, the deaths of aging parents, etc., but the most devastating of family disruption is teenage suicide.

It's very encouraging to read about all of the organizations, churches, governmental agencies and others who are addressing the serious increase in teenage suicides.

Teenagers themselves are pitching in when they can - especially those who have experienced the pain of loss of a friend or family member, or have actually tried it themselves!

They are reaching out to each other through the Internet in teen age forums - like "Open Your Eyes to Teen Suicide" at http://www.bebo.com/OYETTS.

Parents and guardians, for a real eye opener and look into your teenager's inner thoughts, read some of the posts at this site. Many are by other teens who, themselves, have considered and even tried to kill themselves.

It helped me understand where they're coming from. Hopefully, it will help you ,too.

For more help, look into:
Teen Survivors
Prevent Teen Suicide
Speak Up Save Lives