A PSA from Dorkadia

I apologize for the lack of funny today on Dorkadia – please continue for this PSA:

Nerds are a unique group of people. We find ourselves with likes, hobbies, and interests that often segregate ourselves from the larger conversation in society – sometimes for the better, and sometimes, not so much. We can be passionate, active, and boisterous in our own crowds, online or offline, but sometimes we’re quiet and aware that we’re not as accepted by some because of our interests, our looks, or our personalities. Sometimes even in a crowd we feel painfully alone.

Watching some of my good friends and colleagues here at Dorkaida dealing with the loss of a friend has made me aware that I take for granted that I am a very fortunate nerd who has found a good group of friends with varied interests that intersect with my own here in Seattle, and many more on the internet that are just as outspoken and passionate about my geekery ideas. This past week has been a reminder that others out there are feeling alone and hurting for any number of reasons.

Sometimes when we’re being passionate nerds about some idea or other, we focus so much on the topic, and not enough on the person saying the words. I cannot identify those who are hurting on the inside so much that they think removing themselves from the situation is their only course of action – but I can remind everyone that those people are out there, and we should make time to see the forest for the trees, and take the moment to talk to individuals and see that we’re all okay.

Do you or someone you know feel lost and alone? Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Don’t want to speak, but just chat? They have people chatting 24/7. (http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/) They even have e-cards you can send to folks when you don’t know what the right words to say are.

I personally didn’t know the young man who we collectively lost a few weeks ago, but I can see the hole that he left in the hearts of my friends. It’s tragic. It’s left me wanting to bake them a cake or make them a drink or… do something, but none of that will fill that hole in their heart. Please know that if you are ever in that young man’s situation, you are not alone, and you will be missed.

From all of us here at Dorkadia, we wish you all happy holidays, please hug your loved ones, friends, and family, and find something to geek out about and share it with the world. We’re all waiting to hear from you.