Tony writes “Episode 363: The Shadows Of Suicide might be one of the most important episodes I will ever put out as a podcaster. Veteran suicide is something that plagues our soldiers and today’s guest Jake is a testament to that. Jake was a soldier that got injured in the line of duty. Once he returned home he couldn’t find any work as no one wanted to hire him with his disability. It shot Jake down a dark hole of depression and in the moment of him holding a gun ready to take his life something happened that would pull him through the darkest moment of his life.
I recorded this interview with Jake a few weeks ago and after we were done I told him that I felt like this conversation needed to be released ASAP because I thought it could help a lot of people persevere through suicidal thoughts. I had already had my month of August episodes planned out so I added this interview to be released today. Last week, I got a direct message on Instagram from an ex-wife of a listener name Greg. He and I connected a few months back on the phone about coming on the show to share his experiences and we scheduled him for December 24th, 2021. But, sadly Greg’s ex-wife informed me that Greg had taken his life the week before last. Greg lost his battle with the darkness that plagued him and I am left wondering if I would have released the interview sooner, would have made a difference in Greg’s life?
Please, I truly beg you. If you are fighting thoughts of suicide, seek out the help you need. Today does not need to be the final chapter of your life’s book. Time moves forward and so can you! With every day that goes by, you are one day closer to finding that hope that you have been searching for to give your life the meaning every person needs. If you woke up today and suicide was something on the table of consideration for you, I am here to tell you that today’s not your day. It’s not your predetermined fate, it’s not your destiny. Hope and meaning can be right around the corner for you if you just hold out. Let that be your hope if you have no other. Hope in finding the hope to carry on. We love you here at The Confessionals. Lindsay, myself, and all the listeners. Don’t do it.”
John A
Thanks Tony And Thank you Wes for posting. It makes a difference when people care.
DAVID N
I’ve struggled with depression my whole life. When things were really bad for me in the 80s, no one talked about mental and psychological health issues. People today need to hear this now, because it can make a difference!
JEREMY J
This hit home for me when he seen his kid and someone was asking who would take care of his kid and why was he being selfish.
STEVE W
One thing I have.learned , It maybe storm like hell , But the sun will shine again , Hang in there , Use the stepping stone in life to help others , Realize this , People have went through worse and survived, Numerous time’s I almost tossed in the towel, Glad I didn’t, I have two grandchildren now, And by me fighting through, my son has a better life