Letter: The seven principles that guide the Samaritans
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: Suicide is more complicated than Virginia Ironside suggests. Like other actions, it should be judged by its probable consequences. In a healthy young person who is temporarily depressed, it is one of the saddest events imaginable. In a mature adult with responsibilities, it may be sad, but it is also reprehensible. In an old person racked with constant pain, it can be a blessed relief, and even, on occasions, noble.
Epictetus reminds us that the door is open:
Do not be more fearful than children; but as they, when the play does not please them, say 'I will play no longer': so do you, in the same case, say 'I will play no longer' and go; but if you stay, do not complain.
If I were to call the Samaritans, I would rather my concerns were heard sympathetically and objectively than be met with the facile admonitions of traditional Christianity and current fashion. For facts about specific helplines, the Citizens' Advice Bureau is surely the place to call.
Yours faithfully,
DAVID LEIGHTON
Newbury, Berkshire
2 November
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments