She Didn't Die by Suicide-The Truth About My Mother's Story

"This episode is dedicated to my mother, whose light was never meant to be extinguished. May her story remind us all to speak life, give love freely, and never withhold encouragement.”

The devastating truth about my mother's passing pains me to this day—she didn't die by suicide, but rather because her light was systematically extinguished through neglect and the intentional withholding of love. Despite her superhuman efforts—raising children, managing a business, caring for extended family, even laying bricks for our home—she longed for simple acknowledgment that never came. Her story reveals the profound biblical truth that "death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 18:21).

Scripture doesn't present encouragement as optional but commands it. Jesus himself consistently affirmed others, from the woman with the issue of blood to his disciples. Biblical figures like Hannah, Leah, and Mary demonstrate how timely encouragement transformed despair into hope. This isn't just ancient wisdom—modern research confirms it. Marriage studies show each negative interaction requires approximately five positive interactions to restore balance. Children internalize and often fulfill the words spoken over them. Employees rarely quit companies but rather managers who fail to recognize their contributions.

When love and affirmation are withheld, the silent message is devastating: "you don't matter," "you're not enough," "you're replaceable." These unspoken wounds can be as damaging as verbal cruelty. If you've been crushed by silence or rejection, know that God declares your true worth: you are "fearfully and wonderfully made," loved with "an everlasting love," and "chosen." Today, consider whose light depends on your words. Speak life to your spouse, children, colleagues, friends—even strangers. The encouragement you offer might be sustaining someone's very existence without you knowing it. Who in your world needs to hear they're valued today?

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A special thank you to the Best Home Ever Team for sponsoring Spark, allowing us to keep supporting Amanda Termotto’s Right From The Heart Foundation — from caring for orphanages in Uganda and India to funding outreach here at home. Get connected through a Spark Palm City networking event, Blessed Life Ever home church, Mustard Seed Collective Bible study, Calvary Fitness workout, or Like Arrows homeschool co-op. To learn more or get involved, text or call Maria at (561) 779-9452.

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