I don’t think there was anyone out there who was not affected in some way by the stunning news that comedian Robin Williams took his own life. How can someone who’s life conveyed joy and who’s gifts brought laughter to millions and millions of people leave us so tragically? Robin Williams and his actions show us emphatically that depression and mental illness are things that cannot be soothed by money, fame, and success. In light of this recent tragedy and as part of September’s suicide prevention month, Community Mental Healthcare of Dover is spearheading a suicide prevention campaign called “The Semi-Colon Project. You are being challenged to reflect on your past, present, and future through a community writing contest. A semicolon connects two independent clauses. Think of your life as a sentence: your past is the first clause, you are the semicolon, and your future is the next clause. Reflect on your “life sentence…” What does it say? Writers are asked to respond to this prompt in 1 to 2 pages. There will be separate judging categories for high school students and the community at large. Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category.
Things to Remember:
- Semi-Colon Project Writing Contest runs through October 2nd.
- Work can be dropped off at the Dover Public Library or the Tuscarawas County Public Library in New Philadelphia (please include your name, address, and phone #)
- A community writing workshop will be held for writers at Bread Head Bakery in Dover on September 13th. Call 330-602-2434 for details.
- Crisis Hotline for those dealing with suicide: 330-343-1811
- For more info, contact Community Mental Healthcare
- To stay informed about The Semi-Colon Project, click on their Facebook page.
- Partners include: Tuscarawas County Literacy Coalition, Dover Public Library, Tuscarawas County Public Library System, Newcomerstown Public Library, Gnadenhutten Public Library, Clark Memorial Branch Library, Claymont Public Library, The ADAMHS Board, Bread Head Bakery, Uncommon Grounds Coffee Shop, MT Cup Coffee Shop.
-Jim Gill, Director