Busy Bee

This November has certainly been a busy one. Between heavy duty wedding planning, getting ready for the holidays, and constant errands... a friend of mine passed away this week so I have been unable to find time to stop by. 

We had been friends for nine years and although hadn't maintained the closest of contacts over the past couple of years, we did check in and chat a little. He had his life as I had mine. He was always ready to go on an adventure, do something new and experience life. Even if it was dangerous and I was warning him against it, he'd just smirk and do it anyway. I admired his vitality and (what seemed like his) enjoyment of life.

On Tuesday, he committed suicide at his family home. None of us (our collective group of friends) had any idea that he was feeling the way he did. He left no note, no journal, or any indication as to what would push him to this decision and we were always honest with one another. At this point, we'll never know what he was going through to make him take this step but it's been so very hard for everyone.

Although he's gone now, we'll always have the memories we shared together. I hope he finds the peace he was searching so desperately for. We love you, Chase.

So, with that- I'll try and post up some book reviews and things when I get the chance here in a day or two. I'll be back as soon as I can. Take care, everyone.

It Gets Better - Stop the hate, stop the bullying!

I would like to dedicate today's submission to something rather important. Now, I do know this was a call to action for youtube.com and if I could get my video camera to work properly, I would be doing an actual video to this response. But sadly, I won't be able to do so. Nonetheless, I feel this is something that should be shared- regardless of it's medium. 


My message is directed at any and all who are thinking about suicide...or just needs a little comfort. This is not just for gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgenders- this is for everyone. Our GLBT children aren't the only ones killing themselves, this transcends all boundaries. Religion, skin color, hell...our children are being tortured at school about the money the parents make or just about how they look! Hateful words breed hate. Pure and simple.
 
It gets better.  


I was raised to hardcore Republican parents in the bible-belt in the southern states of the US. I always felt different about religion, but wasn't knowledgeable about gays and transgenders. When kids used their typical hateful terminology, I was confused as to what the hell they were talking about...


When I was in 7th grade, I fell in love with my female best friend whose mother was a well-known televangelist. It was revolutionary because I knew that this is how I was born and I began to love the person I was turning into. Needless to say, I was scared to admit to her how I felt and never acted on my desires to confess my love for her. 

I was lucky to have never been physically intimated at school because I had blended so well into their little perfect world but I do understand and have been at the end of taunts and hurtful comments. But it makes you stronger. You take all that hate they throw at you and build a shield from it. No one can hurt you unless you let them. 

We all need someone to help support us...and we all have support, even if we don't think it. There are hotlines, people on the internet, groups, family, friends...these people who will accept you are out there. You just have to be strong and do what is best for you. Suicide isn't the answer. You are ending everything that you could have, your dreams, and taking away your future husband or wife's perfect person.


Since my high school nightmare, I have come out to my family and friends...and you know what? They got over it. They cried, they said I disgusted them, I was told to not talk to them again....and they got over it. Sure, it hurts when those you love deny you. But it makes you stronger, just have faith in yourself and find those who are like minded to help support you. 

I love you all.
Ivy


LBBT Youth: If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please visit this website. Here you can find guidance and someone to talk to. Any conversations are completely confidential.
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
1-866-488-7386