Chatterbox: Down to Earth

There's a problem we need to try our very best to beat. 

No, it's not Trump or Hilary or Sanders or any political figure. Let them take care of themselves.

No, it's not the robots. Yet.

No, zombies haven't started to sprout from hillsides.

No, the Doctor is fine. 

No, it's not the Dark Side. Well. In a way, it sort of is. 

It's depression. Depression is everywhere, it seems.

Some of our own here on the Chatterbox suffer from it. I myself am depressed sometimes. Although working in groups may not be your favorite thing ever, we must work as one to reduce depression.

Even if we just try to be nicer people we could change someone's life for the better.

Give more hugs, high fives, fist bumps, and handshakes. Sit with that kid who eats alone for lunch every day. High five the first graders. Stand up for one another.

Our generation spends a lot of time online. Be kind on the internet as well. State your opinions in the most respectful way possible. If you are just insulting someone for fun, at least make sure they know you mean no harm. Being polite and kind on the internet is very important. You could be helping them cope with whatever it is.

Remember that you don't know what kind of battles they are fighting when you talk to them.

If we can be kind to everyone, we could make a positive impact on the world. If nobody wants to high five you, try, try again. Don't doubt yourself.  You got this in the bag.

If you are depressed yourself, also be kind to everyone. Maybe you'll make new friends in the process. Who knows. Depression is very hard, but it can be overcome through perseverance. Think about what you are good at. Maybe it's art. Maybe it's writing. Or sports. Find what you are good at and cling to those pieces of hope.

I believe in you all.