Atheism and Hope

[drfuzzy]

I have been suicidal - quite a lot in my life.  I've been there.  

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 I'm actually quite amazed that you are here, searching for responses.  When I have been at my worst points, I really didn't care what anyone had to say to me.  I still have my moments.  They aren't fun.

But in retrospect, even though life can still be really nasty sometimes, I'm glad that I didn't succeed.  I'm glad that I didn't hurt my brother and my cousins.  (The only family I have left.)  Because life has had some really lovely moments too.  I can name many times when I have thought "I would have missed this.  I would have never gotten to experience this, if I had succeeded."  And while I'm very introverted by nature, I have learned that I am healthier when I have human interaction.  Get out, do something.  I heartily recommend something that helps those less fortunate than yourself.

I don't think suicide is a sin - - although the pain it can cause your family and friends could be horrific.  However, if you are not in physical pain, then you have hope of finding your way out of the mental/emotional pain.  I think there are times when suicide can be justified.  I think there are many more times when it is a waste of potential: potential to do good for others, to create something of value, to appreciate beauty.  We are more than just human breeders, you know.  

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Aw, thanks Rocket!  (what a cutie!)  And I would have missed meeting the folks here on AF . . . !!!