Two Years Gone

Two years ago today, the Chikara family and the world of independent wrestling lost one of its most colorful, vibrant souls. Larry Sweeney lost his battle with depression and took his own life. I'm not sure this is a loss anyone who was touched by this man has ever gotten over, and I'm not sure it will ever be healed. I'm not sure if it can be healed. As I've mentioned before, I wasn't following the promotions Sweeney would frequent when he was active, but I still feel a touch of the sadness and sorrow associated with this day because Chikara is so imbued in my wrestling fandom. I also feel the warmth and joy that people felt when they did interact with him through their own remembrances, YouTube clips, and .gifs found on Tumblr. In both cases, it's only a fraction of what those who were close to him, either personally or through following him in his entire career are feeling today.

There's nothing that can be done to bring him back, but to honor his legacy, you and I can help make sure that others who suffer from depression can get the help they need. That way, the pain that is felt through the legion of people whom he has touched can be prevented. I could tell you to donate to charities, and that's actually well and good, but the best way to help out is to be there for your own friends and family. Be a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen to. Sometimes, a hug can do more to help someone's pain than any analgesic ever could.