- Toolbelt Tuesday
- Posts
- Finding Purpose in Tragedy
Today’s tool is not a piece of technology or a new technique, but rather an origin story—my own. It’s a testament to how unexpected life events can pivot us toward our true calling.
From Tragedy to Transformation
I come from Portland, Michigan, a tight-knit farm town where community bonds run deep. But when I think of Portland, I also think of tragedy. On March 28, 2022, my youngest brother, Austin, took his own life at just 16 years old. He was the second student from his high school to die by suicide that month and the third that year. His death left us with a painful question: “Why?”
Austin’s passing shattered my world, but it also planted a seed within me—a desire to understand and prevent such tragedies. Despite my Bachelor’s degree in Business and Communication, I found my true passion in Social Work. I want to help others navigate their darkest times, just as I am learning to navigate mine.
Embracing the Value of Therapy
Initially, I was skeptical about therapy. I didn’t want to share my deepest pain with a stranger. But working with Matt Mulder, LLPC, changed my perspective. His guidance helped me face difficult questions and find some semblance of peace. This journey inspired me to delve into mental health research and read influential works like Megan Devine’s It's OK That You're Not OK.
Courses at Hope College, like Power and Politics and Qualitative Research Methods, introduced me to psychology and the importance of understanding human behavior. My education taught me critical thinking, effective communication, and above all, compassion—skills essential for a career in Social Work.
A New Path Forward
Since Austin’s death, my conversations with people have deepened. My priorities have shifted from self-interest to helping others. I am now pursuing a postgraduate degree in Social Work, aiming to lead and support boys and men. This path feels right; it’s not just about a career, but a calling to make a difference.
As I embark on this journey, I carry the values instilled by my parents: hard work, continuous learning, and the courage to chase my dreams. This decision is driven by a desire to live a life of purpose, to ask the hard questions, and to help build mentally healthy communities.
To gain more perspective on men's mental health and how to support those with mental health challenges, I highly recommend watching this YouTube video featuring Ethan Getchell. In this episode, we discuss the silent nature of men's depression, the importance of therapy in the grieving process, and the challenges and rewards of pivoting toward mental health advocacy.
Thank you for reading and supporting this journey.
I see you,
Ethan
Reply