Mournday – 102124

My heart broke last week as I read about the tragic incident involving Liam Payne. My sympathies only strengthened as I learned more about some of the underlying details. Growing up with fame at an early age rarely sets you up for success. It was disheartening to learn that the easiest strategy to secure a popular boy band was to keep them in their hotel rooms. What did lonely teenagers discover inside? Mini-bars full of alcoholic drinks.

Hatred and bitterness can never cure the disease of fear;
only love can do that.
Hatred paralyzes life;
love harmonies it.
Hatred darkens life;
love illuminates it.

-Martin Luther King, Jr.

What truly harmonizes with you? What masks your current dissonances? I loved reading about how generous and active Liam was with various philanthropies. His creative spark feels genuine and real, his sense of caring for humanity authentic and true. What was his support system like? What all spurred him to spiral downward so badly and suddenly?

Harmony does not happen alone. If you need help, please reach out. There are resources readily available to help you on your journey towards rejuvenation and reharmonization. Maybe you lost the tune for a bit. Perhaps a friend, loved one, or professional can nudge you back on track, reminding you of what is important and worth fighting for. Unless I choose to give in, nobody can drag me down. Remember, many people care about you.

What makes you beautiful? Please remember these things. Regardless of what happened last week, in our memories, Liam Payne will continue to live forever.

Maybe it is wise. Maybe it is dumb. Time will tell.