Random Thoughts of Amy Potts

Last week I learned about a 12 year old boy from my home town who took his own life.  The word on the street is that he suffered with depression and he was bullied.  Both of which are so difficult.  There were many thoughts expressed as well as questions.  The question that was asked most frequently was, “how does a 12 year old feel that hopeless”.  He was a child.  I wrestled with this into the night when I learned about it.  Yesterday I saw his picture along with his obituary that told of the things that he enjoyed.  His picture still haunts me.  Why?  I didn’t even know him or his family.  I suppose there are many asking the question that I am asking today; what could have been done to save him?  Instead of trying to come up with an answer to any of it, I went to National Alliance on Mental Illness website www.nami.org .   There is a well written guide called “What Families Need to Know About Adolescent Depression”.  The following is an excerpt: It is important to not dismiss

It’s Easter and instead of going to church like Christians around the world, I chose to go for a bike ride.  Before you set your fingers a sail on your keyboard to respond to what may appear to be rebellion, please know that only your freedom of speech will be applauded.  I did what I did because I wanted to spend some time alone and with nature today.  The sermon I heard as I rode along the stream in the middle of our busy city spoke profoundly of God, creation and a resurrection of life.  Sun shining through after a rainy day… …I celebrate in its warmth Little birds chirping from a nest in the tree… …I celebrate the gift of life Flowers peaking through the weeds in the rough… …I celebrate your unexpected beauty Young couples walking hand in hand… …I celebrate love and friendship Little girl on the swings with her dad… …I celebrate parents who know how to play Gentle stream trickling through the trees… …I celebrate living water In the quiet spot where I chose to rest… …I celebr