...the preacher and the prostitute.

"Do suicide people go to hell, heaven or in between?" That's how a friend started a conversation earlier this week. Long story short, thoughts of committing suicide had crossed their mind several times. They went on to state that "...I am just tired... Drowning really fast... The feeling is stronger everyday..." as we continued with the chat.


This someone is a Christian and this is not an isolated case. Suicide is real and is taking lives daily in our world. Depression has been cited by WHO as the major contributor to the causes of suicide and the trend appears to be going up.


Depression is no respecter of age, gender, education, wealth or health, and has gone to the extent of been referred to as the "common cold of mental health problems." It is the single largest contributor to global disability.


You would think that Christians would be spared considering they have Christ. Nothing could be further from the truth. Many believers could not in the past voice their struggles to people in church. We were ill prepared to handle such matters. But now, things are different. Church organizations have embraced psychological interventions to the extent of having staff trained on the same as well as engaging psychiatrists within the congregation to offer mental health support.


So, do not get stuck in mental strains alone. Reach out and ask for help. Call friends and tell them how tough things are. We are in a season economically where things are tough. Been a child, a teen, a youth, a guardian or a parent is all tough. In the same breath, check in with your buddies intentionally. Ask the tough questions when they loose a job, when a relationship ends, when a loved one dies and when they look just fine.

Image is of friends having a wonderful hug after sharing gifts.


Let's love one another as Christ set an example for us to emulate. Hug the preacher and the prostitute, embrace the child and the childish, support the tough and the tender. Be there for all.


Smile and know you are loved.


The end.


- This article was first written on email in 2023 found it today and thought it's worth sharing again. I re-sent it again to the aforementioned friend in 2025 and this was their response...


"Wooooah..takes me back..

I want to appreciate you today, for being there for me, encouraging me, talking to me, checking up on me and not giving up on me..even when I shut the world out..I'm greatful for your persistent and 76 messages to bring me back🤣🫣..

I'm greatful and I appreciate for having you in my life.

You are loved.

🤗"


Recovery is a journey. Many years journey. Let's be there for each other.

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