In Memory Of My Beautiful Baby Girl

At 6am on Thursday, July 4, 2013, I received a phone call that changed my life. 'My sweet baby sister', as I fondly called her, had succumbed to the cold hands of death after consuming poison with the intent to end her very short life. While she wasn't my biological sister, she was family.

She would have been 18  years old today.

My blog post is to address the issue of Depression and Suicide. Most people were shocked because Zainab was such a sweet girl, so bubbly and full of life. So, it didn't seem to them that such a girl would resort to committing suicide.  Some wondered what could depress a 17 year old girl so much she'd make that decision.

So many people around us are so depressed and frustrated with life but mask it so well with smiles. I am speaking from experience, when I say this. Not all depressed people wear a sign on their face that shows they aren't happy. My family had seen her the week before. She had been so excited to see my dad and had run to give him a hug. My brother spoke to her on Monday and my cousin was with her  the day before she died by suicide. No one saw it coming. Everyone just saw the beautiful Zainab who had just graduated from A levels the week before.

What's the point of this post you ask?
Everyone needs someone. If you are struggling or feeling depressed, please find someone  you can confide in. Speak up! I understand that sometimes, you feel alone and that no one understands, you feel like all hope is lost. You feel like no one will miss you if you go. You feel suicide is the answer. I promise you it's a lie. YOU are NOT alone! All HOPE is NOT lost! You WILL be missed! God knows I still miss her. My heart still aches. Suicide is NEVER the answer.

Let's be more accepting of our friends. Let's make people comfortable enough to confide in us. You never know what people are going through.

Father I pray for everyone reading this post, who might be feeling heavy, frustrated with life, depressed or suicidal.  May the peace of God that transcends human understanding envelope them right now. Embrace them with your overwhelming love Lord. Please shine your light of truth on every lie the enemy has gotten them / is trying to get them to believe. Let them know that they are loved and never alone in Jesus name. Amen.

P.S If you ever feel like talking and absolutely feel like there is no one to talk to, feel free to shoot me an email : hephzibahsplace@gmail.com.