Post Secret

I went to my first Post Secret event last night, and it was really cool. Frank was pretty interesting and I liked that he spoke about the problem of suicide (he even mentioned that while he spoke 2 people would be murdered, but 4 would take their own lives), and that it's an especially big problem at the college level.

I also really appreciated that he made a point of telling everyone how common some of the secrets he receives are, because if anything can help people to feel that he/she isn't alone, it can only help.

My favorite part of the evening, however, had to be the end when the audience was invited to share their own secrets. Even with a crowd as big as the one at Mershon, I did not think very many people would speak up. For those who shared, it started with a deep breath, followed by a shaky voice, but the confessions contained the raw emotion and blunt humor that resonates with all. It was an experience of not just reading the post cards, but hearing and seeing their authors.

Their secrets ranged from horrific stories of molestation and PTSD to the hilarious (yet disgusting) confession that during the H1N1 scare, a couple switched the contents of several Purell dispensers with lubricant. After every person's secret, the audience would clap in recognition of their bravery. It was a very supportive atmosphere and further added to Frank's message that we are not alone, and that we can all find help if we need it.

I'll definitely be going back if he returns!