Those three words became my mantra when it was introduced as the slogan for To Write Love On Her Arms 2018 World Suicide Prevention Day campaign. I painted my first semi-colon butterfly with acrylics nearly a year later as a reminder to me and others, and it still hangs in an office at The Emily Program in Lacey, WA. Then, I made my first alcohol ink butterfly. Next, it became a tag that was sent to 25+ people to remind them just how important they are. For the holidays, it was made into an ornament, again with alcohol ink. But I wanted people to have a way to display the Tomorrow Needs You butterfly year-round. That's when I painted the butterfly that you see on our stickers, shirts, and other Tomorrow Needs You products.

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In the mental health community, the semi-colon is a reminder that "your story isn't over yet" and is a common symbol linked to suicide awareness and prevention. Many who've experienced suicidality have semi-colon tattoos, and when noticed by survivors, it's an instant connecting point. Butterflies are often seen as a symbol of transformation and new beginnings. So combining the two just makes sense.

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Often when people are experiencing their darkest times, they have thoughts that people would be better off without them. But the truth is the world needs your presence. Your story is important. And Tomorrow Needs YOU!!!