The seventh in a long series of advice column by Uncle Paul; in this piece Uncle Paul answers a letter from a girl who has just experienced a tragedy.

Dear Uncle Paul,

Earlier this week there was an article on PatersonTimes about this kid in my school that committed suicide. Joel, I did not know him but still I feel upset. I wrote on his locker “I never knew you but you’ll be missed.” He was part of the bulldog family. It’s hard to go to school because the notes are really upsetting. I cried the day I found out he committed suicide. It’s scary who in their right mind would kill them self. Then again if he was in the right mind he wouldn’t have done it. Right? Well Uncle Paul my question is how do you deal with the pain? How do you move on? And what makes someone commit suicide? Should I be worried that any of my friends could be next.

Bulldog4Life Kaitlyn

(Paterson, NJ)

Dear Bulldog4Life Kaitlyn,

These kinds of things are always difficult to deal with. If you’re seeking for answers it’s best to talk to a school counselor she may know more about it than me. The pain will soon subside just focus your mind on other things like sports, music, or school work. We may never know what caused Joel to seek suicide as a solution however we must be strong in turbulent times. Like you said “He was part of the bulldog family” and he still is. He will live on through the memories of his friends and families.

I don’t think you should be too worried about your friends for now just worry about yourself.

If you have questions that you would like Uncle Paul to answer on just about any subject send an email to paul(@)patersontimes.com

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