I am the director of the urban youth outreach the Jesus Party, and for well over a decade I have been active in promoting suicide prevention.

Sept. 6-12 is National Suicide Prevention Week. Over the years, I have participated in many discussions on the topic and have attended several meetings sponsored by the mental health community. I do not pretend to be an expert on the subject, but I do have a heart that breaks when I hear of people who have come to the end of their ropes.

I am a pro-life Christian and to me that means more than just saving babies from abortion. It is a conscious commitment on my part to bring quality of life to all those who God has entrusted into my care.

It doesn’t cost any money or time to smile, shake hands, give a hug or pat someone on the back.

If, by chance, there is someone reading this letter who is in intense emotional and/or physical pain, you should remember your judgment is being clouded by that pain. If considering suicide, you are trying to end that pain but, please, you shouldn’t confuse ending your pain with ending your life. The two are very different. Seek help immediately and you will be on your way to a better life. The phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433), or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

My prayers are with you.

The Rev. Douglas Taylor, Lewiston