13 November, 2008

A much needed explanation...

As many of you may know, I've always been a tad bit critical of the "To Write Love on Her Arms" anti-suicide movement. Today is actually the movement's anti-suicide holiday, for those of you who may not know. The basis of the group is the (rather novelized) story of a guy's effort to prevent a girl's suicide. Don't get me wrong, I fully support any effort to stem the suicide epidemic anywhere in the world, but I feel that certain aspects (particularly some of the followers) of the TWLOHA movement cheapens it a bit.

I won't deny that it spreads awareness, but excuse me if I feel that it only does so on a superficial level. I see bands wear the t-shirts and people walking around with 'love' literally written on their arms and I have to ask myself why people are doing this. I understand that many have had their lives affected first hand by those who have committed suicide, which is a horrible tragedy, but I feel that more can be done to raise awareness than simply wearing a shirt or scribbling on one's arm. To put it simply, I (no longer) have any problem with TWLOHA, but I just wish that its less-informed supporters would take more than a superficial interest in the far from superficial matter of suicide. 

I've poked fun at the movement itself at times, and for that, I am really and truly sorry. Having had a chance to ruminate on my thoughts, that's a rather childish stand for me to take, especially on a matter that is so serious. While I am still upset by the superficiality of some TWLOHA supporters, I fully support the movement itself and have a great deal of admiration for its goals. Also, to any serious TWLOHA supporters who I may have pissed off, at any point, I apologize whole-heartedly for my actions.


I encourage everyone to take a moment and visit these websites. Suicide is a serious matter and education as to its apparent causes (as well as methods of prevention) is the best tool we have to combat it.

much respect,
josh

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