02/04/2023
Grounded. That is my word for 2023. I want to be grounded. In every decision, I make and literally in every step that I take. The last few years have kept us on our toes. We have been shut in, freaked out, and generally whipsawed by all that has been going on. We have been subjected to pandemic fallout, politics, 24-hour news cycles, and people overall not being kind to each other.
[⚠️Sensitive Content] Toward the end of 2022, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, who was the sidekick to Ellen DeGeneres on her show, took his own life. More people were unexpectedly rocked by this news because on the surface he appeared happy. He was a family man. He was featured on social media reels always dancing. He had an infectious smile. He was kindhearted. And still, he took his own life. People
did not see that coming and it landed hard on our hearts.
Going into a new year is exciting, but for some people, it is not. It is incumbent upon us to check in on our friends and neighbors and make sure they are okay. And it is okay to not be okay. There is no shame to ask for help. If you or anyone you know are having thoughts of self-harm, please dial 988, the Su***de and Crisis Lifeline. There will be a person on the other end to help you, without judgment.
And remember, you are loved.
Lovingly,
Angela Beddoe