Today would have been my late husband’s birthday. I suppose that, technically, it still is, but he’s not around to celebrate it — by his own choice.

You see, thirteen years ago, he shot himself in the head.

He’s missed out on so many wonderful things in life, not the least of which is watching his only daughter grow up to become such an amazing young woman. I haven’t heard from his first wife in years, but I’m certain that his sons (who are now 21 and 20) are also terrific young men. And what’s worse than Steve missing out on life, those three kids have missed out on having a father. He stole that from them.

Suicide isn’t just wrong. It’s a cowardly, cruel, and inexcusable betrayal of those who love the person who commits suicide. Anyone who might think the people in their life would be better off without them should rethink that — because the real truth is that actions speak louder than words, and if you genuinely love someone, you won’t cause them the horrific pain of your self-destruction.

If you’re having thoughts of hurting yourself or ending your life, call your local suicide helpline, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Just don’t take that one action that you can’t change your mind about.