More Rohmann!
I sincerely wish you published more of Stagestruck columnist Chris Rohmann’s theater reviews. They are so important to so many of us, because what to see and what to miss is something I’ve counted on from Rohmann’s fine reviews over the years. I suspect many readers pick up an Advocate just to see a weekly theater review. I hope other theater lovers agree with me.
— Sidney B. Simon
Hadley
Thinking of Suicide? Hang in There
This letter was submitted in response to the Between The Lines column “Suicide’s Shameful Stigma,” published March 29, 2016.
Having experienced suicidal impulses myself, I have to say that unless you have never experienced that level of depression, you really can’t imagine how horrible it is. I could say that it’s like being in the deepest depths of the ocean with monsters attacking you. Or it can feel like being on the moon hanging off the edge of a cliff by your fingernails, knowing that no one can possibly rescue you.
To that person I would say: Hang on and make it your job to find some answers. The answers are never the same for any two people. One place to start might be asking yourself some questions, such as, How long have I been like this? Or, Is there something that triggered this? Looking for your answers will probably use a combination of things. Study depression, there are some good self help books and there are a lot of us around. Call a crisis hotline. See a psychiatrist. Try medication; there are a lot of antidepressants available now, and follow the doctor’s directions. Some drugs can take a week or more to kick in. With the right combination of meds, your condition could change quickly. Read, get counseling, watch self help shows, join a support group. If one thing doesn’t work, try something else. Don’t stay with a doctor or counselor if you don’t like them. You have the right to change. Only you can know what’s working and what’s not.
One more thing; not everyone who jumps off the Golden Gate Bridge dies. Talking to the survivors, most say the moment they stepped off the edge, they knew they were making mistakes. Don’t be someone who takes his or her last step in regret. Hang in there. I did.
— Nancy Stark
Shelburne
Killing With Kindness
Mercy, mercy me. All these refugees and war-torn countries. I say let’s just carpet bomb ’em … with food and water, seeds and tools, building supplies and how-to books, clothing and medical supplies! That’ll teach ’em. Re-purpose the U.S. Air Force! Generosity is our best defense.
— Michael D. Joyce
Wendell
