Suicide Prevention: Embracing the Light

Here are some inspiring thoughts from the good people that participated in making “Embracing the Light,” a stunning new mural in Philadelphia designed to promote suicide awareness:

I was surprised that that mural had that kind of power, it was the first time I ever experienced anything like that.

This pain is unlike any other grief. A complicated grief filled with guilt. Stigma. What ifs. Whys?

My immediate thoughts were about my brother. But I was suffering depression. I saw myself as the person that was in those waters and needing help.

The title of the mural is called “Embracing the Light,” so there is that theme throughout it. Keep looking for the silver lining, even when things feel very dark and difficult.

Every mural is a sign that people care that we are here. And no one will be forgotten.

It’s always hard to find something positive from that experience, but what you get from loss and from grief is the ability to connect with others on a deeper level and understand what it is to be human.

I know that every time I look at it, I’m going to be proud . . . and it’s going to make me feel calm and not alone.

This is a very special community. It’s a club that no one wishes to be a part of. It’s here that we find that healing isn’t about letting go of the past but rather carrying our pain with purpose and grace and proceeding with wisdom and empathy as a beacon for others.

These words are even more powerful when paired with the image of the mural, which was created by James Burns, an artist from Mural Arts Philadelphia. James worked for over two years in partnership with community members whose lives have been impacted by suicide to create the massive, impressive work of art.

I’m grateful to James and everyone at Mural Arts Philadelphia for allowing me and the crew to document this journey. I’m delighted to share this special Recovery Diaries feature about a work of art that tells a story of grief and loss and hope and creativity.

In this season of light, it’s a privilege to share “Embracing the Light” with you.

If you or someone you know may be in crisis or considering suicide, please call, text, or chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Gabriel Nathan | EDITOR: Glenn Holsten | DESIGN: Leah Alexandra Goldstein | SITE ORIGINATOR: Bud Clayman