Ode to a best friend

Ten years ago I lost a best friend in an act of her own. I had wanted to write a long tribute to her and what she meant to me, but those who knew her, already know how wonderful, loyal, and lively a person she was, and those who never met her, never will. If I can do one thing on the ten year anniversary of her passing, I'd like to remind everyone how special life is and how wonderful it can be if only we let ourselves live it.

If there is one thing I wish I knew then that I know now, are the signs of suicide. Sometimes I carry the guilt that I wasn't there to prevent the death of the person who showed me so many things in life. Whether its true or not that there was nothing that I could have done to prevent the tragedy, it doesn't stop me from feeling like there was something I should have done.

To commemorate the life of someone so dear to me, I'd like to remind (or inform) everyone of the warning signs of suicide. I hope this never comes in handy for anyone, but what's more, I hope nobody ever has to look back and wish they knew these in hindsight.

In loving memory of Orenda Blakely.


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(From Suicide.org)

Suicide Warning Signs:

* Appearing depressed or sad most of the time.
(Untreated depression is the number one cause for suicide.)
* Talking or writing about death or suicide.
* Withdrawing from family and friends.
* Feeling hopeless.
* Feeling helpless.
* Feeling strong anger or rage.
* Feeling trapped -- like there is no way out of a situation.
* Experiencing dramatic mood changes.
* Abusing drugs or alcohol.
* Exhibiting a change in personality.
* Acting impulsively.
* Losing interest in most activities.
* Experiencing a change in sleeping habits.
* Experiencing a change in eating habits.
* Losing interest in most activities.
* Performing poorly at work or in school.
* Giving away prized possessions.
* Feeling excessive guilt or shame.
* Acting recklessly.