• Connecting the dots

I read with interest your recent coverage of domestic violence. It is refreshing to see the media present such an enlightened and accurate picture of what domestic violence really is. Seldom do papers “connect the dots” between the murders of family members and the preceding months and years of less deadly but equally devastating domestic violence.

Educating your readers about the warning signs of domestic violence and the presence of resources in your community to help victims, family, and friends in whatever way they feel is most beneficial can be just the information that saves lives in the future. Thank you.

Karen Geiger, Atlanta

Statewide Coordinator,

Family Violence Project of Georgia Legal Services Program

• Get the help you need

I knew when I watched the movie ‘Stop Loss’ there was a reason it disturbed me so much. In Ft. Cambell Ky., suicide rates among the Army is rising, so much so as to prompt the base to shut down for three days to evaluate. Now, it is hitting home with one of our own, John Wesley Ganues.

If your mate is not acting right or is out of control, make a phone call. I can understand that you don’t want to call anyone in the military and why, but if you are thinking that way, there must be something worth saving in your life or your loved ones life. Trust me, if you sat with me and I told you my life story, you would wonder why I'm here. Everything happens in your life for a reason-good or bad, and usually, eventually, it will come out to be for your own good. Life goes sideways to teach you or someone else in your life a lesson. When the lesson is learned, things will get better.

But back to our troops. You don’t have to go to your commander (although that would be a good place to start). You can call the Haven (229-244-1765). There’s 1-800-784-2433 (1-800-SUICIDE). The Department of Veterans Affairs has a number 1-800-273-TALK (8255) press No. 1 or you can go to the Web site www.northflorida.va.gov. The most important thing to know is that if you feel that way or you feel someone is feeling that way — talk to someone, a preacher, chaplain, anyone to work it out. God did not create any junk and no matter what happens to you, you are here for a reason.

Cindy Obester