Another life lost ...

There are a lot of sayings concerning age, "You'll find out when you're older" being one of the most commonly used. Often, however, people are wanting to grow up too fast, know more now, and get to do what the people older than them are doing. When looking at growing up, one may think of: later curfews, different ratings on movies, going on dates, driving, getting married, having kids, having your own house, going to Jr. High/High School/College, moving out, getting a job (but a fun one of course), making a lot of money, etc. however rarely do people associate the responsibility, cost, and sometimes "un-fun" times that come along with some of these things.

There are a few things, in my opinion, which should not be done at any age, and there are a few people, lately, who have proved it. Michael Jackson, Heath Ledger, Judy Garland, Anna Nicole Smith, Marilyn Monroe, Chris Farley, John Belushi, River Pheonix, and now the late Britney Murphy all died in their 20's and 30's (with the exception of Judy Garland who died at age 47) due to drug and alcohol abuse and overdose. These were all very talented people and I'm sure we would have enjoyed watching them live out their lives and careers for longer than a short 20-30 years. 

Drug and Alcohol abuse and overdose, however does not only stick with people of 'celebrity' status. This tragedy can hit very close to home. There is a line from, in my opinion, a great movie "28 days", which says - you never know if this hit will be your last, or if this will be the day you overdose. So goes with anything you do. Eating disorders, addictions, etc. all have the same power, which leads an individual to not know if today will be their last. There have been too many people, especially lately, whom have died far too soon due to these addictions and behaviors. 

I would hope these stories which are surfacing shed a little light on the outbreak and epidemic these behaviors are becoming. I have yet to find a story which told of an individual who participated in these things which, without getting help from professionals, were able to lead a long happy life. There are however hundreds, thousands, and perhaps millions of stories of those who did not seek professional help and died prematurely, without being able to reach their potential and get to experience what they wanted to do in the first place, "do what the older kids are doing". I would also hope these stories, of these tragic deaths, would encourage and perhaps empower people to get the help they may, or may not, think they need. Just because you don't think you are addicted doesn't mean you're not. I'm sure any of the individuals mentioned above would have denied any claims of abuse. 

The best way to prevent abuse, is never to start, however if you have already started, it's best to get out now before there's no tomorrow. Many people start because they want to "do what the big kids are doing", however participating in these behaviors will not give you that chance. I am sure all of the names listed above will be missed, by friends, family, and the entertainment world, however I hope their stories, lives, and tragic premature deaths will lend as a wake up call rather than merely another life lost.

Christmas

I have not written in awhile, however I figure Christmas time is the perfect time to update! 

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. The snow, lights, ice skating, treats, fun, and the opportunity to give to others have always been the highlights for me. Whether the giving is to your family, friends, or someone in need there is always an opportunity to give, and Christmas seems to bring out that service in people. 

One thing, I think, which has gotten lost in all of these activities however is truly why we celebrate this time of year. There are so many things to get lost in: the lights, sounds, and smells of the season, the hustle and bustle of shopping, finals, work, etc. however people tend to want to get lost in those things. They like the feeling of shopping, looking at the change in decoration, etc. but they don't take the time to remember why this time of year IS this time of year. 

The word Christmas used to be seen in every store window, and heard from every mouth wishing their friends and family happy holidays, however now the word 'Christ' has been taken out of the phrase and replaced with an 'x'. That would be like saying "Happy xday" for a birthday, or "Happy x of July", it just doesn't make sense. I think it is easier to abbreviate this holiday for fear of offending someone. There is no need to worry about offending someone with the words "Birthday or 4th" which are associated with other holidays. We need to remember this holiday is being celebrated in honor of the birthday of Christ. 

Yes, there are new decorations, fun activities and treats, and opportunities to give, however let us not forget the person who gave us more than we could ever give away. 

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy Holiday season.