Cutting for the Cutter

   Most don't understand the life of a cutter. For instance, today there are two girls on my archery team that are 7th graders that cut themselves. I just figured this out today. When we shoot, we can't wear any loose things such as headphones (I learned that the hard way...), loose dangly necklaces and earrings, big hooodies/jackets, etc. These two girls took their jackets off and I saw two left tormented wrists. Everytime they shot, I couldn't take my eyes off of their left arms. It was so distracting and I became very sad.
   Cutting isn't a new topic for me, hasn't been since I was 12. But, you don't normally see wrists like these just out in the view everyday. Towards the end of pratice, Coach finally noticed it and took them aside. I over heard the girls telling their friends that they told him their cats did it. There is no way that those wounds could come from a cat. Different thick red lines going in different directions, none parallel of each other. It's common sense if you think about it and lived through it and know a lot about it.
     I'm not doubting that these young girls have hard lives. Probably go through bullying or something but there's other ways to get out the pain. Hit a wall or pillow, scream to loud music, run/jog outside, or just cry. Or if you like the "rush" of blade going through your skin, I understand. It's exciting, danger=excitement. No one can tell you what you can or can't do to your body but at least listen to opinions to those who care that you think don't. They do, and they just want you happy and not inflicinting pain upon yourself.
     Also, cutting isn't "cool" just because you see someone do it. Cutting is a version of seeing your pain when you can't feel it anymore. A release, a cry, just a way to get your angry/pain out without seeming vulnerable. You think fun? Say that to someone who's addicted to doing it everyday for most of their life. Show true strength next time you're down and cry. Put the razor/knife/etc. down and just cry it out. You'll feel a lot better, trust me.