Dear wbc youth & friends,

I have stepped down from the reading through the bible blog because I feel Jesus asking me to write in another section of the website. The advice column. 

I think that there is some stuff that applies to a lot of people in our group that we never seem to get to cover enough, things I have went through or watched others go through. Depression, grieving, pain, feelings of hopelessness, addictions, self injury, feeling alone, and even suicide. I want to talk about these things with you, because most other people won't. Because they are afraid of topics so bold and so edgy, because they don't realize how many of us are actually in pain. Brothers, sisters, daughters, sons, mothers, fathers, friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, family. 

It breaks my heart to see that people are out there who hurt and feel like they have to go through it alone. I have been there, and now I want to help you.

Everyone hurts. PERIOD. Everyone has pain in their lives, but not many people can see that. I know what it is like to feel that pain inside, pulling you apart, dragging you under, and also what it is like to constantly put on that plastic smile and pretend everything is okay, when really, you're drowning.

I want you to know that you do not have to feel like that anymore. that is no one else in the world cares, I am here, and so is Jesus, and we want so badly to help. I may not know what you are going through, but HE does, and I can listen. Know that anything you tell me stops with me. I won't tell anyone else unless I feel that I have no choice and then it will be someone I trust. You don't have to tell me everything all at once. We can go as slow or as quickly as you would like. I'll even tell you things in my life that you can relate to, or at least feel like you can trust me, because you know some of my secrets too. 

I just wanted to extend this offer to everyone in my wbc youth list, and if you want to talk,
a.) i'm on my cell a lot. text or call if you call and I don't answer, please leave a message and I'll call you right back.
b.) when im not on my cell, im on facebook.[drop me a message]
c.) email me [e_kidd@live.com]

IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR ME [aka DEAR EMILY]
email it to me
or drop it anonymously in the box on the side. 
 
I love you guys dearly and truely, 
and I honestly want to help.
love em.