Observations: Rows of Smiles
I was in Smalltown, Utah. I was laughing, smiling, and even dancing in my seat a little—enjoying the show. The local cast was putting on a production of a popular musical. I had gone to the show with some friends to support our acquaintance who’d joined the crew.
While on stage, this person was contributing to a fun evening for all in attendance.
I watched this person nail one of her scenes. I looked to my right and to my left…
I saw a row of smiles.
A great point could be made about how individuals can make such an important impact on so many people, and never be able to see it. (I mean, have you ever been on a stage with bright lights pointed at you? You can barely see people in the audience most of the time, let alone if they’re smiling or not.)
But the bigger picture here, is that this person—the one bringing joy to a large, local audience—was there because she was a survivor.
I shouldn’t need to (and will not) tell you any more particulars about her, except that she had faced the challenges of growing up different than those around her. She wasn't getting the love and support she needed and deserved. Unfortunately, suicide ended up being a perceived option she tried some months before this night.
My life, at least for this night, was beautified by witnessing the amazing contributions of this person. She had conquered the demons holding her back, but it took a frighteningly grave series of events for her to get to this stage, healthy and happy.
Too many people, and especially too many young Utahns, can relate to this person’s story. I can relate in my own way, and perhaps some reading this column can, too.
I’m not bringing this up just to say this person put on a good show, and thank goodness I didn’t lose my chance to see it. I am writing about this to thank this person for putting on display why change is needed, and that we can all make a difference in this endeavor. This local survivor demonstrates why we need more honest discussion about preventing suicide, why we need to discourage social marginalization in all its forms, and why we ought to be building a more loving community that thrives on the happiness of all.
This is no quick-fix issue. There’s so much ground to cover. However, I believe more healthy dialogue will lead to more positive action and more understanding.
I think we can all start by incorporating inclusivity into whatever we do. That doesn’t seem too much to ask.
Simple inclusive acts can lead to many rows of smiles.