What the VMAs Did Right

I started to wonder if the VMAs was even relevant anymore.  I didn't even realize it was this weekend until Friday, when the radio station I was listening to was talking about Taylor Swift premiering her new music video, and speculating whether Katy Perry and Taylor Swift might have a reunion at the award show.  I decided to tune in anyways just in case something that mattered might happen.  Then it did.

First, there was the story Pink recounted for us while accepting her Michael Jackson Vanguard Award, but that was all Pink.  I was ready to tune out and turn off the TV, when Kesha came on and reminded people that no one is ever alone, and that there is light once you break through the darkness--a message Jared Leto had also given earlier in the show when honoring Chester Bennington.  What really mattered about this, was the attention the awards gave to suicide prevention and mental health.  The performance of "1-800-273-8255" by Logic, Alessia Cara, and Khalid mattered because we need to talk about mental health more.  We need to rid ourselves of the stigmas and address mental health.  As Logic stated, all those issues that make so many people uncomfortable and fearful like mental health, domestic violence, sexual assault, those need to be talked about and addressed, because we only allow these issues to continue or worsen by turning a blind eye to these very common and prevalent matters.

If you are feeling alone and in a dark place, you really are not alone and there is light once you break through the darkness.  Trust me, I know.  Call this number if you need a helping voice. 1-800-273-8255.  Other helpful resources are on the homepage of this site.  You are not alone.  You are loved.  You matter.  You have purpose.

BIG LOVE & HUGS

Love,

​Justine