Geena Gammon is a student here at UAH, Resident Assistant, Sorority Woman (My sister), lover of people and promoter of happy thoughts and philanthropy. She created a wall on the Second floor of North Campus Residence Hall with the words “Reasons to Live” and invited residents to give their own reasons. This small act could impact so many lives. This isn’t the first time Geena has promoted Suicide Prevention. She's passionate in her fight for mental health to be as much of a concern as the physical. I truly admire her and all the positivity that she stands for. Keep chasing the light, I love you Geena!

15 reasons to live

Inspired by the Amazing Geena Gammon & Suicide awareness month

1. Sunshine, the sun feels so good on your skin and sends you positive energy. It’s my favorite thing in the entire world.

2. Seasons, they symbolize change, for the good of course. We ourselves go through seasons, some better than others but it’s a sign of growth. Seasons change and so do we.

3. Each day. Is a blessing, plus there’s nothing scarier than waking up and making it through each day. It’s a challenge. I mean they say you should do one thing that scares you every day.

4. Friends, the people who love you like their own and are able to brighten any day. They make everything else seem like background noise. They become your family, they couldn’t do life without you.

5. Music, the best drug, coping method and pastime. More often than not it speaks when you can’t. Listen to Greatest – Sia.

6. Love, if no one has told you lately, I love you! There is so much love out there and I know you have plenty to share. Besides, there’s someone out there that wants to do life with you.

7. Family, your first friends, teachers, providers and protectors. They want what’s best for you. Know that they are proud of you and they love you.

8. Experience, so many things that you haven’t done yet. Let’s go explore, adventure is out there.

9. Joy, you never know the happiness that you bring to others. And should you allow it, there’s so much joy that others can bring into your space. Psalms 30:5, it’s worth it.

10. Books, just like adventure there are so many you’ve yet to skim. Perfect for when you need a break from reality. Some of the most powerful words are found in your favorite books. You find strength in your favorite characters, while each story teaches you to be your own hero.

11. Animals, they love you unconditionally. No matter the time of day, the amount of time you’ve been gone or pushed them away. Our fluffy pals need us and we need them.

12. Food, the key to my heart. As James Beard said “food is our common ground, a universal experience”. If not for any other reason stay for pizza.

13. Stars, I dare you to watch the sunset and then lay out to watch the stars. You’ll never want to leave that spot. Stars remind you that no matter how small you feel, you’re not alone.

14. You’ll see me tomorrow.

15. And I’ll see you.

I’m team you. I don’t know where you are in your situation but I’m willing to meet you right where you stand. Stay. We’ll take that trip, pet that puppy and watch the sunset. I’ll sing horribly to my favorite songs and laugh at your bad jokes, we’ll eat until our tummies hurt and I promise not to spoil the ending of that book. Tomorrow can be the start of something new. Know that I’m proud, you’re doing great and somebody truly loves you.

From,

Team you.