You Are Not Alone

The thirteenth rule of discernment from Saint Ignatius was written in the 1500s, but rings true 500 years later: Evil works to keep bad things a secret. It’s why Adam and Eve covered themselves, hid in the Garden and wouldn’t tell God about the apple even when He asked point blank. Feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, bitterness, resentment, self-hatred, the desire to harm and more are already difficult, but they also make a strong temptation to hold them to yourself. “No one would understand,” “I’m too ashamed,” “I’m all alone.” But those aren’t true. They are all lies. It’s just like when we were kids: tell a trusted adult. Who is that? Your spouse? Your friend? A counselor? A doctor? A priest or person in ministry? Do you trust me? Some of the power that these painful feelings hold over you will immediately lessen because you broke the silence that evil wanted to keep. I can testify to that myself. Tell someone. I’m sorry to hear of another high profile suicide, knowing there are lots of non-famous people who struggle too. You aren’t alone. That part is a lie. Talk to someone. That’s the first step to finding peace.