Compassion prevents suicides

Tue., Dec. 31, 2013

Some people with suicidal thoughts tend to rationalize the irrational belief that the world would be a better place without them: the ultimate in self-destructive behavior that lends itself to isolating oneself from family and friends; ironically, during the holiday season.

Officer Davida Zinkgraf, extending her hand to the young man doing his suicidal dance atop the Monroe Street Bridge, reminded me of Clarence, the wingless angel, trying to help an intoxicated and suicidal George Bailey in the 1946 movie classic “It’s A Wonderful Life.”

A seemingly hopeless situation can be remedied with compassion, others’ willingness to listen without making judgment, prayer and a heavenly intercession from above.

James Perkins

Colville

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