Suicide and Persevering in Love

Hall’s book intrigued me for two reasons. First, my early depression was linked heavily to existential meaninglessness, and largely resolved when I rejected the ideas of Friedrich Nietzsche (and his existentialist heirs) and settled into my Christian faith. So, I am predisposed to be skeptical about secular arguments against suicide. Second, the focus of Hall’s argument is the impact of suicide on others, and especially on children and grandchildren. My research in psychology and theology predisposes me to see this as compelling and critical. Hall’s argument addresses not only the potential damage of suicide, but also the positive good a suicidal person can do by persisting in living. An appreciation for what our care and example offers to others, and especially our children, can bolster our sense of purposefulness.