I know you’re wondering: what this book is about? This title is not my typical read. But you see. dear reader, it IS. I like to read books about people like me. And Jamie, sometimes, feels like me.
As I sit here on a beautiful patio overlooking a beautiful Sioux Falls, South Dakota, I’m enjoying the sun and the breeze and being outside. Alive.
And many people, because of heartache, trauma or other circumstances don’t get to be alive for very long. The author, Jamie Tworkowski, suffers from depression. And he’s met many people in his young life who suffer also. Some from depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, cancer, negativity, you name it. Young Jamie started an organization called TWLOHA in response to a young woman he encountered who was a cutter. Jamie and his friends successfully kept this woman alive until she could enter rehab.
This experience encouraged Jamie to to want to encourage others. To tell them that they are not alone and that they matter. That they have a friend; in him and in the other people who believe the same things he believes.
It’s nice, this book. It’s a compilation of Jamie’s blog posts. It’s like insight into his brain. Jamie’s not afraid to admit that he’s sad, confused, and cries alot. Most people suffering from depression do. But they’re afraid to admit it.
That’s why I chose to review this book. I want you to know that if you’re struggling with something: depression, suicidal thoughts, addiction, cutting, ANYTHING, that there is hope and that you have a friend.
You have me. I’ve been there.
You have Jamie. His non profit movement, To Write Love on Her Arms can help you get started. Its located at http://twloha.com/
Jamie and I want you to remember that you’re not alone.
Please remember that.
Teens, especially, who feel different, marginalized or for whatever reason feel like they don’t fit in, might need to know this. You matter.
To me.