I've always said that the more people I meet and befriend, the more opportunities I have to enrich my life - to learn, to laugh, to relate to another woman and mom. But there's also a flip side to that too. The more people I meet, the more I am exposed to other's pain, heartache...even death. The death of their child, their parent...and in this TRAGIC case, their own death.
I know of Karissa only through the blog world. Never chatted with her directly. I can't claim to be an avid reader of her's. But I knew of her presence in social media, and that her blog, Prissy Green, was a good one. I know that she provided useful information on living green and organic, and finding joy and practicality in the things around you. I also know that she was someone who other bloggers admired, for her humor, her honesty, and her constant willingness to be helpful and resourceful, with enthusiasm and genuine concern.
Today I learned that she killed herself.
The last post on her blog was about taking a "small break". She wrote it on Jan 2nd. She indicated that she'd be back soon, back to her usual posts and giveaways. And she wished all of her readers their "best year yet."
As a psychologist, I have witnessed the depths of despair. As a friend, wife, daughter, sister, and mom I have seen tragedy and hopelessness experienced by those I love. Karissa was someone's daughter, in her 30's. I can't imagine the unbearable pain of her family right now, let alone the unbearable pain she must have felt to leave them by ending her life. Whether or not we knew her personally, we realize that she has finally found her peace, but we wish that she had somehow found it while still living.
Her suicide is a wake up call to all of us: to reserve a little less judgement; to take a little more time; to express a little more love and compassion; and to PLEASE seek help if you are feeling lost and alone.
My hear and best thoughts go out to Karissa and her family. Suicide can be a very difficult event to experience. May we all find peace.
Posted by: adiaha | Friday, January 15, 2010 at 09:31 AM
OH MY GOODNESS :( I am praying for her family
Posted by: Patti Hess | Friday, January 15, 2010 at 09:37 AM
Thank-you for this beautiful post. A tribute to what sounds like an amazing woman. I didn't know her before.... but just reading her blog, her friends comments leaves me wondering how this happen to her. Her family & all those who loved her are in my prayers!!
Posted by: Jana | Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 12:53 PM
Such a wonderfully written post and perfect sentiments.
Thank you for reminding people that there is alway someone to talk to.
Posted by: Lorie Shewbridge | Monday, January 18, 2010 at 09:06 PM